Accelerating success in the African energy markets - my journey to Oxford

3 minute read
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The African energy market presents unique challenges and immense opportunities for innovators, entrepreneurs and professionals alike.

To thrive in this dynamic landscape, it is essential to be versatile and possess advanced financial strategy expertise. For me, the Oxford Executive Diploma in Financial Strategy offers a transformative program designed to equip individuals with the skills, network, and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of ensuring competitive advantage in a changing environment. In this blog, I will talk about the program's impact and how it can empower participants to drive sustainable growth and seize opportunities.

Our cohort comprises professionals from around 20 nationalities, spanning across various sectors, with a significant number holding leadership positions in their respective industries. For example, we have outstanding individuals like Benjamin Hansen, who excels at mobilising people with his good heart and great personality. We also have Rana Salika, an exceptional project manager and a role model for women in the construction industry in Lebanon. Additionally, Rumaitha Al Busaidi, a globally recognised award-winning climate activist, recently elected as the Secretary of the World Aquaculture Society, and the awesome Stoil Vasilev, a gentleman who is the VP Corporate Development at SumUp, are among the many brilliant minds doing amazing things around the world. This diverse composition presents a remarkable opportunity for learning and collaboration across multiple sectors and global markets, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship among us. This petri-dish of diversity can provide a comprehensive toolkit to tackle business challenges head-on. By incorporating modules on strategy, business finance, corporate valuation and financial strategies for growth, the program aims to provide a holistic understanding of the financial dynamics involved in building valuable businesses and completing projects.

Effective financial decision-making is paramount in doing business, where capital allocation, project evaluation and risk management play crucial roles. The programme's focus on strategy empowers participants to analyse competitive landscapes, identify growth opportunities and make informed choices and decisions to succeed. I am developing a strong understanding and essential skills for analysing corporate strategy, risks and returns, evaluating investments and optimising capital structures. Armed with this expertise, I can navigate markets and funding complexities for the African Energy Sector.

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, not only equips participants with the necessary knowledge but also empowers them to make an immediate impact on a current project or in their businesses. The programme's emphasis on practical tools ensures that participants are equipped with actionable strategies to drive growth and maximise value in today’s realities. By integrating financial strategies for growth, participants can further optimise their business models, evaluate potential acquisitions and effectively manage risk.

The impact I speak of extends beyond individual participants. As professionals and entrepreneurs enhance their financial strategy expertise, they contribute to the overall transformation of their industry and sectors. By implementing robust strategies and efficient financial practices, participants can drive increased investment, foster innovation, and establish sustainable business models that will transform economies and improve the quality of life.

It has been an awesome journey so far; I am full of gratitude and excited to keep building! 

Oxford Executive Diploma in Financial Strategy