Slavyan Mladenov

What was your career experience prior to studying this programme?  

Before joining the MSc Management programme at Imperial College Business School, I began my career as a Software Developer Intern at Abilitics in Sofia, Bulgaria, where I developed foundational skills in software development and collaboration. Following this, I gained further experience in web development and project management through various roles. I then joined HP Inc. in Cambridge, UK, as a Software Engineer.  

Why did you choose to study MSc Management at Imperial College Business School?  

I chose Imperial primarily because of its prestigious ranking and the excellent reputation of its academic programmes. The School's standing among the top business schools globally assured me of a high-quality education that would be recognised and respected worldwide.  

Additionally, the location in London was a major draw. As a global financial hub, London offers incredible opportunities for networking, internships, and career advancement. The vibrant city life and diverse cultural experiences have also greatly enriched my personal and professional life, providing a unique blend of academic learning and real-world exposure.

How are you planning to use your Master’s for your future career?  

I plan to leverage my MSc in Management to bridge my technical background with strategic business insights, aiming for a future senior leadership role focused on technology-driven business transformation. The comprehensive curriculum at Imperial College Business School has equipped me with a deep understanding of both management principles and cutting-edge technological applications.

The Risk Management for Corporate and Financial Institutions module has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of risk assessment and mitigation, crucial for my future role at PwC as a GRC Senior Specialist (Senior Associate). This module, along with insights from a guest speaker on Cyber risk, has provided a robust framework for addressing complex risk environments in corporate and financial settings.

What career support have you received from the Business School? 

One of the most beneficial services I utilised was the one-to-one appointments with the Careers Team. As a result of the skills and knowledge I acquired at the Business School, I received offers from several companies.

During my time at Imperial College Business School, I had the opportunity to talk to several Career Consultants; their knowledge and trustworthy advice have been invaluable. The career support I received and the practical learning from the programme have been crucial in securing my new role.

How have clubs and societies contributed to your student experience? 

I am a member of the Consulting Club, which has provided me with numerous opportunities to participate in events featuring guest speakers from all the Big Four firms and other industry leaders. These events have given me valuable insights into the consulting industry and expanded my professional network.  
 
These experiences have significantly enriched my time at Imperial, providing me with broader industry knowledge and valuable networking opportunities.

How does the programme help you stay up to date with evolving industry trends, themes and challenges in the real world?  

As an Imperial student, I benefit from free access to premier business news sources such as the Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Economist. This access is invaluable for staying informed about the latest industry trends and global economic developments.  

The combination of classes, guest speaker events, and interactions with fellow Imperial students during coffee chats and networking events has been instrumental in keeping me up to date with the latest industry trends and challenges. These experiences collectively contribute to a well-rounded and current understanding of the business world.

What advice would you give to someone who’s considering applying for this programme?  

Use the application and interview process as an opportunity to genuinely reflect on whether this programme aligns with your personal goals, ambitions, and motivations. Rather than trying to fit into a perceived mould, showcase your unique personality and what you can bring to the programme. This authenticity will not only help you in the selection process but also ensure that you are choosing the right programme for your future.