Ziad
Q: You’ve just returned from your three-month exchange project in our European offices. What made you decide to apply for the project?
A: I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of working in Europe. Collaborating with colleagues in GSA (Germany, Switzerland and Austria) and the Netherlands sounded like an amazing opportunity to learn from different markets and bring that knowledge back to the Middle East. I was really looking for a challenge that would push me out of my comfort zone and help me grow both personally and professionally.
Q: How did you prepare for the move?
A: I started by working with the teams online to get to know them and understand their working styles. This helped a lot when I finally made it to the different European offices. The firm also provided excellent support throughout the transition, from logistics to connecting me with the right people, which made everything much smoother.
Q: What was it like once you got to the offices in Germany and the Netherlands?
A: It was incredible– the experience exceeded my expectations. I worked on a consumer markets project and learned so much from both the staff and clients in Europe. Meeting new colleagues and clients was enriching. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fresh challenge and a chance to broaden their horizons. I’m extremely grateful to the firm for providing such opportunities, which often require changing jobs entirely to experience.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment from your time in Europe?
A: One of the memorable moments was our team bonding sessions around the foosball table. It became our go-to activity, and there was always laughter when the loser had to crawl under the table. Those fun, light-hearted moments really brought the team closer together.
Q: What are your next steps now?
A: I’ve finalized the project and now I’m pursuing a sponsored MBA at INSEAD Fontainebleau. This project in Europe came at the perfect time, giving me invaluable exposure and experience before my MBA journey. I'm looking forward to meeting future colleagues, making new friends, and expanding my network. I’ll return to Strategy& Middle East with a broader perspective and new skills for sure.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a similar opportunity to work on projects beyond the Middle East?
A: Go for it. Embrace the challenge and be open to learning from new experiences. It’s a unique opportunity to grow while trying something new and exciting. The firm’s support and the insights gained from working in different regions and teams are invaluable. It’s a journey that will enrich your career and your perspective.
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