Shereen Abdulla
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Programme studied: BSc Management Sciences
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Year of Graduation: 2009
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LinkedIn profile
We picked Shereen as Alum of the Month for September because of the exciting career she has developed in the world of finance and her inspiring lifestyle change that has improved both her personal health and workplace productivity.
What's your current job?
I am currently a Senior Associate in Alvarez and Marsal’s Performance Improvement practice in Dubai.
Where have you worked previously?
Prior to my current position, I spent over five years at Citi performing several roles across their consumer and business banking divisions. I was recruited to join their Middle East Management Associate program and left the firm with the position of regional Marketing and Partnerships Manager for their SME/MME business
How did you get into your current role?
Despite my continuous growth at Citi, my desire to always feel challenged in my work environment left me looking to leave the bureaucracy in banking. And so, I took an opportunity that came my way through a recruiter to join a global boutique consulting firm, A&M, which was in the process of growing its Dubai office. Since joining, I have been in the most challenging role to date, as I am constantly asked to deliver work beyond my existing capabilities in terms of subject-matter content and analytical skills.
How has the programme you studied helped your career since you graduated?
More than the actual knowledge I obtained whilst studying at LSE, the university’s brand name on my resume has been the greatest factor in helping me achieve my career goals, particularly in the Middle East where very few individuals would have graduated from top universities abroad.
What's been your proudest achievement to date?
My proudest career achievement to date would be getting promoted at Alvarez and Marsal seven months after joining the firm, based on my performance on my first project assignment. My proudest personal achievement, however, has been transforming my lifestyle from a sedentary one to being more mindful of my eating and more active. By taking better care of my health I find that I am more energetic and productive in the workplace, so it’s a win-win!
If you had to choose one highlight from your programme, what would it be?
The best things I walked away with after studying at LSE were the friendships I formed whilst studying there. The friends I made are still my best friends, more than seven years after moving out of London. Friendships formed whilst going through a transformative time, such as university, will be the strongest bonds formed, and so I encourage everyone to value social activities at LSE.