Naila Alakbarova

Naila Alakbarova, a 2017 MBA graduate from Kent, is currently a Customer Journey Expert at The International Bank of Azerbaijan. Her role focuses on product development, where she handles data analysis, market research, and product design, ensuring each project aligns with client needs. 

Recently, she played a key role in establishing non-banking advisory services for affluent clients. Naila values continuous learning, often incorporating new trends into her work. 

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

After graduation, I received several job offers within the organization I was working for. I was offered a Senior Specialist position in Private Banking. For several years, I worked in product development, closely collaborating with marketing management. Then I was appointed as a Head of Division in Retail Non-lending products. Recently, I started a new role as a Customer Journey Expert in Affluent division. 

What does a typical work day look like for you? 

What I like in business and especially in product development is that you almost have no routine work. Each task is a mini project and involves research, investigation, exploring new areas and obtaining new knowledge and skills. Every day, I make it a point to learn something new by listening to short online lectures. After checking my email, I join the daily stand-up meetings with the team. My work involves dealing with data on a daily basis, as almost all decisions in the modern world are data-driven. My tasks include exploring trends, conducting market research, designing and testing products, preparing business cases and documentation for new products and services, creating presentations for stakeholders, attending meetings with colleagues, and much more. 

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

In my new role over the last six months, I have been involved in several interesting projects. One of these projects was related to establishing non-banking advisory services for affluent clients for the first time. The scope of work was extensive, as everything had to be built from scratch. 

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

During my studies at Kent, I gained knowledge and skills that have shaped me as a professional. My approach to research and presentations also evolved significantly. I strongly believe that earning my MBA demonstrates to my employer that I can successfully work within a diverse team to achieve project goals. 

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Always strive to keep your finger on the pulse. Observe trends and explore how you can implement them in your work. Remember Lewis Carroll’s words: 'It takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!' That’s how it works in business. 

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

Though the MBA schedule didn’t leave much free time, I tried to use my time at Kent as efficiently as possible. I joined the ASPIRE entrepreneurship program, and my project was selected to advance to the next phase. I also made it a point not to miss activities organized by the International Students Office, as they were both interesting and valuable for socializing. 

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

It’s all about the people who surrounded me. I made friends easily in that friendly atmosphere. From 'kitchen parties' and evenings at K-bar to our MBA group trip to Paris and Brussels, and holidays celebrated together—such as Christmas dinner, Chinese New Year, and, for the first time in Kent’s history, Novruz holiday (an idea I had and also helped organize). 

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

I might focus on building even more network connections. 

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes, of course. I made friendships at Kent, and we’re still in touch, thanks to social media and video calls. I also ensure that the university has my up-to-date contact details.

What are your future ambitions?

I will continue to develop my skills in leadership and team management. My ambitions are to lead larger teams and take on greater responsibilities with a broader project scope.