Kazibwe Samuel Derrick

"My time at Kent was not only academically enriching, but also personally transformative"

Kazibwe Samuel Derrick is a Kent Business School alumni originally from Uganda. We caught up with him to hear how he is kickstarting his career in management in the UK.

1. What is your current job role, where are you located, what does your company/organisation do, and what do you enjoy about it?

I am currently working as a Retail Trainee Manager at Sainsbury's Supermarkets in Ashford, Kent, UK. Sainsbury's is one of the largest supermarket chains in the UK, providing a wide range of products from groceries to household items. In my role, I co-supervise a team, focusing on enhancing productivity and ensuring efficient inventory management. What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to lead and motivate a diverse team, improve operational efficiency, and deliver excellent customer service that positively impacts our customers' shopping experience.

2. What does a typical working day look like for you?

A typical working day involves co-supervising a team of 60 employees to ensure the store operates smoothly by overseeing daily tasks, coordinating staff schedules, and addressing any operational issues that arise. I focus on inventory management, making sure that stock levels are accurate and shelves are well stocked. I also handle customer enquiries and resolve any issues to maintain high customer satisfaction. Collaborating with colleagues to implement compliance protocols and working towards achieving sales targets are also key parts of my day. Additionally, I spend time mentoring team members and coordinating with different departments to streamline operations.

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

In my current role as a Retail Trainee Manager at Sainsbury's, I was initiated into a mentorship program that connected my team with industry professionals. This experience provided significant perks and allowed me to put into practice the material studied at school. The exposure enhanced our team's performance, leading to an increase in customer satisfaction and a boost in sales. This honed my leadership abilities and confidence and motivated me to aim even further in my career. 

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

My time at the University of Kent was instrumental in shaping my career trajectory by providing me with a solid foundation in international business practices, fostering a supportive learning environment, and connecting me with industry professionals through networking opportunities. The MSc in International Business and Management gave me a solid grasp of global business dynamics, strategic planning, and analytical thinking. The diverse and collaborative learning environment enhanced my leadership and communication skills. The knowledge and experiences I gained have been directly applicable to my current role, enabling me to implement effective management strategies and contribute positively to my organisation's success.

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

I would advise current and prospective students to focus on developing strong interpersonal and leadership skills, as these are crucial in any managerial role. Seek out opportunities for practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering, as they provide valuable insights into the working world. Embrace continuous learning and consider pursuing professional qualifications like ACCA to enhance your expertise. Networking is crucial—attend industry events, request informational interviews, and engage on professional platforms to learn and gain insights from professionals.

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

Yes, I am still in touch with several Kent alumni and academics. We keep in contact through networking events, alumni gatherings, and professional social media platforms. These connections have been helpful for support, sharing industry knowledge, and staying connected with the university community.

8. What are your future ambitions?

I aspire to become a qualified accountant and progress to a senior role in financial management or auditing. I am currently working towards the ACCA qualification to enhance my expertise in accounting and leadership, aligning with my goal of becoming a qualified accountant and advancing in financial management or auditing. Ultimately, I aim to contribute significantly to the financial industry, leveraging my skills and experiences to drive organisational success and make a positive impact in the businesses I work with.

9. Any other comments? Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time at Kent or current business trends and insights?

My time at Kent was not only academically enriching but also personally transformative. The multicultural environment broadened my perspective, exposed me to diverse viewpoints, and improved my ability to work effectively in diverse teams through better cross-cultural communication. As for current business trends, I believe that data analysis and technological proficiency are becoming increasingly vital due to their role in driving informed decision-making, improving operational efficiency, and staying competitive in the digital age. Using digital tools and improving analytical skills can give businesses a competitive edge by facilitating data-driven decisions, recognising growth opportunities, and effectively adjusting to market changes.