Olakunle Keshinro

Since completing his MBA at Kent Business School in 2023, Kesh continued his personal development before joining the university's Alumni Relations team in 2024. With over 14 years of leadership experience in client-engagement roles within the financial industry, Kesh has a wealth of experience in building meaningful relationships and fostering connections. This background enriches his current role, where he is dedicated to enhancing alumni engagement and supporting the university community.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

Since completing my MBA at Kent Business School in September 2023, I have been committed to advancing my career through continuous professional development, including obtaining my Professional Scrum Master™ I (PSM I) certification. Joining the University of Kent's Alumni Relations team has been a profoundly enriching experience, allowing me to apply and expand my skills in a dynamic and impactful role. Prior to my MBA, I amassed over 14 years of experience in customer service, relationship management, and business development within the financial industry, encompassing banking, pensions, and wealth management. This extensive background has honed my abilities in strategic planning, project management, and team leadership, providing a solid foundation for my current role. 

What does a typical work day look like for you?

A typical workday for me at the Alumni Relations team is dynamic and fulfilling, filled with a variety of tasks and interactions. My day usually begins with reviewing the day's agenda and prioritizing tasks to ensure alignment with our strategic goals. I start by checking and responding to emails, particularly those from alumni and internal stakeholders, to address any immediate concerns or opportunities. My day also includes most and, in some cases, all of these activities: collaborating with other departments to align efforts; networking with colleagues and alumni; planning, organizing, or attending alumni or other networking events; engaging with alumni through calls, emails, meetings, and social media; curating and sharing alumni success stories to enhance profiles; and then ending the day by reflecting on achievements and setting priorities for the next day. 

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

My experience at KBS has been pivotal in advancing my career, complementing my extensive years of professional experience. The rigorous MBA curriculum enhanced my foundational knowledge across key business disciplines such as strategic management, marketing, finance, and leadership. This academic grounding not only deepened my understanding of theoretical frameworks but also provided practical insights through case studies and collaborative projects. The MBA programme offered invaluable networking opportunities with faculty, industry experts, and diverse cohorts of students. These interactions have enriched my perspective and expanded my professional network, facilitating meaningful connections across various sectors. Drawing on my experience, I was able to contribute practical insights during discussions and leverage these networks to explore new career opportunities. Kent's emphasis on practical learning and application has enabled me to translate classroom theories into actionable strategies, enhancing my problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills in real-world scenarios. The global outlook fostered at Kent also equipped me with cultural sensitivity and a broadened perspective, crucial for collaborating effectively in global business environments. The MBA provided me with a more comprehensive toolkit and confidence to navigate complex business challenges, furthering my career trajectory and positioning me for continued success in dynamic industries. 

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

Networking is absolutely critical in virtually every career path. While hard work and competence are essential, building and nurturing professional relationships can significantly enhance your career journey. The University organizes a variety of networking events that provide excellent opportunities to connect with industry professionals, alumni, and peers. Also, the Alumni Engagement team is highly active and can facilitate connections not only within your alumni group but also across various sectors and industries. Joining an alumni group is invaluable for staying connected with the university community. It allows you to maintain relationships with former classmates, professors, and administrators who can offer support, advice, and potential career opportunities throughout your professional life. As a member of the Alumni Engagement team, I am honoured to contribute to these initiatives and am committed to supporting, promoting, and enhancing alumni engagement at the university. Whether you're seeking advice, mentorship, job leads, or simply want to reconnect, don't hesitate to reach out to me or the team via alumni@kent.ac.uk. Building a strong network during your time at Kent and beyond can open doors, provide valuable insights, and help you achieve your career goals effectively. 

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

As a postgraduate student, my time at KBS was relatively brief, spanning just about a year, which limited my participation in formal extracurricular groups. However, I actively sought to connect with my classmates, colleagues from other departments, and even undergraduates to build a diverse network of relationships. Outside of academics, I enjoyed attending numerous student events (including parties and sporting events) both on and off campus that enriched my experience and allowed me to engage with the vibrant community at Kent. While I didn't formally join any student groups due to the short duration of my programme, I valued the interactions and connections made through informal networking and attending events. These experiences enriched my time at Kent, allowing me to engage with a vibrant community and broaden my perspectives beyond the classroom. 

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

Yes, absolutely! One of my favourite memories  was participating in the International Business Challenge in Greece. It was a truly phenomenal experience! We were tasked with addressing real-life business challenges presented by actual companies, drawing on our MBA knowledge and experiences to propose actionable solutions. Beyond the academic and professional aspects of the trip, the entire cohort came together as a cohesive team. We bonded over the challenges, shared insights, and supported each other throughout the process. Also, exploring the beautiful city of Athens together added an unforgettable cultural dimension to our experience. The International Business Challenge not only sharpened our business acumen but also fostered lasting friendships and memories that I cherish from my time at Kent. 

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

Hmmmm, there are a few things I might approach differently. Firstly, I would consider embarking on the MBA programme at Kent a bit earlier in my career, as the knowledge and skills gained would surely have been beneficial earlier on. Secondly, I would prioritize focusing not just on grades but on fully immersing myself in the learnings and enjoying the moments each module offered. This approach would have allowed me to extract maximum value from the program beyond academic achievements. Lastly, I would aim to network more extensively from the outset. Building connections with peers, faculty, and industry professionals is crucial to maximizing the opportunities and insights gained during an academic journey. 

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

Yes, absolutely! I'm fortunate to remain connected with fellow Kent alumni and academics, actively keeping in touch with the University community as a whole. Being part of the Alumni team is particularly rewarding, as it allows me to collaborate with both alumni and academics on various initiatives aimed at strengthening our network and fostering beneficial relationships. I'm passionate about exploring new ways to enhance these connections. Supporting the University in achieving its goals is a priority for me, and I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to our shared success. 

What are your future ambitions? 

My future ambitions revolve around leveraging my extensive experience to drive impactful growth and innovation within dynamic organizations. I aim to further hone my leadership skills, potentially moving into a strategic executive role within the university where I can influence broader organizational strategies.