Taiye Oloriade

Imperial College Business School

“The diversity within the program enables a rich exchange of ideas and a dynamic learning environment that mirrors real-world business challenges.”

Hometown: Kwara State, Nigeria

Fun Fact About Yourself: I was voted one of the funniest in my high-school class, I thought this was great proof of my years of hard work.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lagos, Nigeria – Mechanical Engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Deloitte – Assistant Manager, Technology Transformation 

What makes London such a great place to earn an MBA degree? Few cities in the world offer a better diversity of experiences than London. I particularly enjoy sightseeing, visiting parks, taking scenic journeys, playing football games or dining out at any of the many restaurants. Importantly, London being the economic driver for England and a leading city on the global landscape means there is a huge presence of some of the most interesting organizations, startups, and communities. I am genuinely thrilled about the connections I’ve already and I look forward to further exploring and contributing to this vibrant landscape.

Imperial College Business School is one of the most culturally and professionally diverse MBA programs in the world. How do you see these global perspectives enhancing the value of your business education over the next year? The diversity within the program enables a rich exchange of ideas and a dynamic learning environment that mirrors real-world business challenges. This exposure is broadening my perspectives and preparing me to navigate the complexities of an increasingly international business landscape. Additionally, interacting with a diverse cohort is influencing my understanding of global business nuances and improving my ability to collaborate across borders. 

Your MBA is known for innovation, business and technology. Has the program lived up to its reputation? What advice would you give to future students to help them thrive in the early months of the program? Based on my experience, the ICBS program can be intense however the integration of forward-looking business and technology concepts makes this an exciting experience. In the initial months when students are acclimating to the pace, it’s crucial to identify effective strategies early on and maintain a focus on your primary goals while navigating through academics, social engagements, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, learning to leverage the strengths of your cohort, faculty, and the broader Imperial community is essential for seeking support when needed. Adaptability and a collaborative approach contribute significantly to a successful journey through the program.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Imperial College Business School’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?  A pivotal factor in my selection of ICBS for my MBA program is the symbiotic relationship the Business School shares with the broader Imperial College community — a powerhouse in STEM education, both in Europe and globally. While I enhance my expertise in the business aspects of the program, being part of the extensive Imperial Community offers me firsthand exposure to cutting-edge developments in the technology sphere. This dual exposure not only enriches my training but also positions me to emerge as a prominent business leader. I am confident that the amalgamation of these experiences will equip me to make a meaningful impact on a global scale.

What has been your first impression of the Imperial College Business School MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far? Tell us your best Imperial story so far. My experience with Imperial students has generally been delightful. Particularly, the close-knit nature of my cohort truly stands out to me. One recent experience was the entire cohort celebrating the Diwali holidays together. Connecting with my cohort mates has hands down been the highlight of my journey here. It’s not just about the academics; it’s about the friendships and shared moments that make the whole experience super exciting and memorable.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Imperial College Business School? One of the standout courses in my academic journey has been “Financial Management and Accounting.” Learning from first principles perspectives from the user’s standpoint not only made the content accessible but also provided me with fresh insights to interpret and analyze financial data. As I continue to delve into the complexities of financial management, this course has significantly broadened my understanding and equipped me with practical tools to navigate the dynamic landscape of finance. 

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My most significant achievement to date has been the successful leadership of consulting projects in my role as an Assistant Manager at Deloitte. Drawing on my prior experiences at EY, where I engaged with diverse clients across industries and navigated multifaceted challenges, I was able to bring a wealth of insights during my time at Deloitte. The noteworthy aspect of these experiences lies in the positive feedback received from both clients and colleagues, underscoring the impact and effectiveness of my contributions.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? Sustainability and Technology Consulting: I plan to always be at the intersection of impact, creativity and problem solving which at the moment translates to leveraging technology and innovative solution designing to solve some of the world’s most challenging problems. Ultimately, I envision myself playing a role in creating sustainable, forward-thinking strategies that not only address current issues but also contribute to shaping a more resilient and socially responsible future.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Imperial College Business School’s MBA program? Show the best part of yourself through your application process, own your story and your reasons for seeking an MBA at Imperial College Business School at this time, aim to elaborate on these reasons in your application and lean in on the strengths of your professional and personal experiences. Your journey at ICBS is not just an academic pursuit; it’s an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from a collaborative community dedicated to fostering growth and success.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far. In my capacity as the President of the African Business Club, I have had the opportunity to lead dynamic conversations on EMEA, Diversity, and Africa. Working alongside an exceptional team, we are dedicated to providing individuals with relevant insights, transformative tools, and innovative approaches that can effectively address the enduring and global challenges faced by emerging economies. By fostering a collaborative and empowering environment, our goal is to contribute meaningfully to the development and growth of both individuals and communities.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? As I look back, I already have had a good number of amazing moments, but one moment that stands out vividly was my first day at Imperial College. The realization that I am now part of this storied institution and that I would have the privilege to learn from some of the world’s most esteemed faculty. This moment encapsulated the excitement and gratitude I feel for being a part of the Imperial College community.