Kingsley Ukaulor

University of Notre Dame, Mendoza School of Business

“I am an authentic, extroverted, and kindhearted individual who finds joy in uplifting others and spreading positivity.”

Hometown: I call 2 places home: Port Harcourt, and Lagos – all in Nigeria.

Fun fact about yourself: I’m known as “the life of the party” because of my ability to connect effortlessly with people—even at first meetings. I thrive in spontaneous interactions and love engaging with diverse audiences. Whether emceeing, moderating, or public speaking, I find joy in creating meaningful connections and bringing positive energy to any room.

Undergraduate School and Degree:

• Undergraduate School: Uptonville Oil & Gas Institute, Nigeria (Petroleum Geosciences)
• Undergraduate School: University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria (Petroleum & Gas Engineering)
• Graduate School: University of Notre Dame – Mendoza College of Business (Business Analytics, Strategy & Digital Product Management)

Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school? McBrian & Neil – General Manager, Business Development

Where did you intern during the summer of 2024? Amazon – Houston, Texas.

Where will you be working after graduation? Amazon – Pathways Operations Manager

Community Work and Leadership Roles in Business School: Lead, Hospitality Team at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school? Mentoring first-year MBA students for Amazon Pathways Operations Manager Internship interviews has been my most rewarding achievement. Three students struggled with structuring responses using the STAR-LW method, so I worked closely with them through multiple mock interviews, refining their approach until they gained confidence. These three students, along with additional three others I coached, ultimately secured the highly competitive Pathways Operations Manager Internship at Amazon. Seeing their success reinforced my passion for mentorship and leadership development while strengthening the culture of collaboration at Mendoza. This experience showed me the power of investing in others and the lasting impact of paying it forward.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? Leading a six-week pilot to reduce AR (Amazon Resale) Concessions as a Pathways Operations Manager Intern at Amazon HOU3 was the most impactful achievement of my professional career. When I took on the project, HOU3 ranked among the sites with greatest opportunities for AR % clean improvement. By optimizing quality grading and defect reduction processes, I increased AR percentage clean from 4.83% to 36.88%—surpassing the ReLo Network requirement for the first time. This improvement moved HOU3 from 18th place (out of 19 sites) to 7th best, making it the 3rd most improved site. Additionally, I enhanced processing efficiency, increasing time spent per item by just 70.8 seconds while recovering an extra $118.24K in savings. Managing a 20-AA pilot team, we achieved a 33% clean rate and recovered $43,734.95 in COGS, with projections indicating a 2% concession reduction in the coming weeks.

Beyond operational improvements, this experience reinforced my ability to optimize processes, drive data-backed decisions, and lead high-impact initiatives. I had the privilege of presenting my findings at the ReLo Regional Network’s A3 URR and Quality Call, sharing scalable solutions that could enhance network-wide performance. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance of my managers and the dedication of my teammates, whose collaboration and support played a key role in driving these results. Seeing my work contribute to meaningful efficiency gains and cost savings reaffirmed my passion for solving complex operational challenges and leading change at scale.

Why did you choose this business school? I chose Mendoza because of the unwavering support I received from the admissions team, especially Maria Stutsman y Marquez (then Director of Admissions), Cassie Smith (current Director of Admissions), and Stephanie Brown (former Assistant Director of Admissions). When my visa was denied in 2022 back in Nigeria, forcing me to defer my admission to 2023, they continued to check in, offering encouragement and open communication. Their genuine commitment made Mendoza more than just a business school—it became the only MBA program I wanted to attend. That level of care and dedication spoke volumes about the school’s culture, and for that, a big shout-out to the admissions team.

Beyond that, Mendoza’s “Grow the Good in Business” mission, rooted in Notre Dame’s Force for Good philosophy and Catholic principles, deeply resonated with me. The school’s Business Analytics major and Strategy minor provided the ideal academic foundation to sharpen my analytical and leadership skills. The strong alumni network, my desire to work with the IDEA Center, and, most importantly, the deeply supportive community made Mendoza the perfect place to grow as a leader and drive meaningful impact

Who was your favorite MBA professor? (Choose one professor and explain why.): Professor Jessica McManus Warnell, the Director of the Notre Dame Deloitte Center for Ethical Leadership (NDDCEL), has been my favorite professor at Mendoza—not just for her expertise in Climate Resilience in Business and Communities, but for her mentorship and unwavering support since before my MBA even began. When I applied for an on-campus role at NDDCEL, she noticed my resume and encouraged me to reach out to the IDEA Center, believing I would be a valuable addition to their team. Following her advice, I was hired as a Technical Market Analyst with the Risk Assessment Team, and a year later, I was promoted to Senior Analyst. When I arrived on campus, she made time for an in-person meeting, where she not only welcomed me but also helped expand my network by introducing me to Deloitte’s Notre Dame recruiters to support my internship search.

Beyond her mentorship, Professor Jessica’s course on Climate Resilience in Business and Communities profoundly shaped my perspective on sustainable business solutions. Her insights reinforced my commitment to tackling food waste reduction, directly fueling my work on Didiya, an online marketplace my friends and I launched in October 2024 to address food waste challenges. Her guidance, encouragement, and belief in my potential have been instrumental in my MBA journey, and I am incredibly grateful for her impact.

What was your favorite course as an MBA? The United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) course, taught by Professor (Fr.) Oliver Williams and later continued by Professor Joseph Holt, was the most impactful course of my MBA journey. It deepened my understanding of corporate sustainability, ethical leadership, and how businesses can align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to drive meaningful change. More than just theory, this course directly influenced my entrepreneurial journey with Didiya, a startup my friends and I launched in October 2024. Didiya is an online marketplace that connects quick service restaurants, agro food producers, and retailers with cost-conscious consumers to sell surplus food at discounted prices before expiration.

Inspired by the UNGC’s principles, my team and I used Didiya as the foundation for our participation in the McCloskey New Venture Competition, where we are still competing and hoping to be selected as one of the semi-finalists. We also advanced through Rounds 1 and 2 of the MIT Climate & Energy Prize (MIT CEP), but did not make it to the semi-finals. These experiences challenged me to apply the course’s insights to real-world business models, reinforcing my belief that ethical and sustainable business practices can be both financially viable and scalable. While the competition results are still unfolding, this course has already shaped my vision for using business as a force for good—one that will continue to guide my career beyond Mendoza.

What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at your business school? The Mendoza Heritage Ball (now called The Cultural Unity Ball) was my favorite MBA event because it beautifully celebrated the diversity of cultures, nationalities, and religions within our community. This newly expanded event now incorporates both the Heritage Ball and MBA Prom, making it an even more vibrant and inclusive celebration of Mendoza’s global spirit. It wasn’t just about gathering—it was about honoring and embracing the unique backgrounds that make Mendoza such a rich and diverse environment.

For me, it was a special moment to boldly showcase my Nigerian Igbo attire, culture, and heritage along with my fellow Nigerian and African brothers and sisters—an experience that amazed and intrigued many of my classmates. Seeing their curiosity and appreciation for our traditions reinforced Mendoza’s commitment to fostering a truly global and inclusive community. The Cultural Unity Ball perfectly embodies the school’s values of unity, respect, and shared celebration, making it a highlight of my MBA journey

Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why? Looking back on my MBA experience, if there’s one thing I would do differently, it would be to engage Mendoza’s vast alumni network much earlier—especially to secure a pre-MBA internship before arriving in the U.S. While I eventually built strong connections, I now realize how valuable it would have been to proactively tap into Notre Dame’s alumni network from the start. Early engagement could have provided deeper industry insights, mentorship, and potentially led to an internship opportunity that would have given me an even stronger foundation before beginning the MBA program.

Mendoza’s alumni community is incredibly supportive, and their insights could have further shaped my approach to career opportunities, competitions, and entrepreneurial ventures like Didiya. While I made meaningful connections later on, an earlier and more intentional approach would have unlocked even more opportunities. That said, this realization has strengthened my commitment to staying engaged beyond graduation—both as a mentee and as a mentor, ensuring future students maximize the wealth of resources that Notre Dame and its alumni network have to offer.

What is the biggest myth about your school? (and how was it the same or different than what you experienced): One of the biggest myths about the University of Notre Dame is that, because it is a Catholic institution, it is only for Catholics. Before joining, I wondered if the school’s faith-based foundation meant a religiously exclusive environment. However, my experience proved otherwise.

From day one, despite being a Catholic, I found Notre Dame to be inclusive and globally diverse, welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. Events like the Cultural Unity Ball celebrated this diversity, allowing me to proudly showcase my Nigerian Igbo attire and heritage alongside classmates from different cultures. Classroom discussions were equally enriched by a wide range of perspectives, fostering open dialogue and ethical leadership beyond religion. Notre Dame’s Catholic values aren’t about exclusivity—they are about service, community, and growing the good in the world—principles that resonate with everyone.

What did you love most about your business school’s town? What I loved most about South Bend was its unique blend of tight-knit community, rich history, and strong school spirit. Despite being a smaller city, it offers an incredible sense of belonging, where students, faculty, and residents genuinely support one another. The town revolves around Notre Dame’s culture and traditions, making game days at Notre Dame Stadium an unforgettable experience—where the entire city comes alive in a sea of blue and gold.

Beyond campus, I appreciated the affordability, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether it was grabbing a bite at a local restaurant, volunteering in the community, or enjoying the serenity of the St. Joseph River, South Bend felt like a second home. It’s a place where relationships flourish, and Mendoza’s strong community extends beyond the classroom into the town itself.

What movie or television show best reflects the realities of business and what did you learn from it? While not a traditional business show, America’s Got Talent (AGT) is the perfect reflection of the realities of business—where competition is fierce, storytelling is key, and success often depends on resilience, adaptability, and execution. Much like entrepreneurs pitching to investors or professionals vying for career opportunities, contestants must craft a compelling narrative, showcase their unique value, and continuously refine their performance to stand out in a crowded field.

What I’ve learned from AGT is that talent alone isn’t enough—strategy, branding, and emotional connection matter just as much. The most successful contestants don’t just perform; they engage, build a following, and leverage every opportunity to evolve. This mirrors the business world, where companies must differentiate themselves, connect with their audience, and consistently deliver value to thrive. Whether in entrepreneurship, consulting, or corporate leadership, AGT reinforces a key lesson: it’s not just about having a great product or idea—it’s about how well you sell it, sustain it, and scale it.

What is one way that your business school has integrated AI into your programming? Mendoza has actively integrated AI into its programming through coursework, experiential learning, and industry collaborations. One key example is how AI is embedded in courses like Business Analytics, Digital Transformation, and AI & Ethics, where students explore AI-driven decision-making, automation, and ethical implications in business. These courses provide hands-on exposure to tools like machine learning models, data analytics platforms, and AI-powered business solutions.

Beyond coursework, Mendoza fosters AI integration through case competitions, research initiatives, and partnerships with industry leaders. As an MBA student, I’ve seen firsthand how AI is shaping business strategy and operations. Whether in discussions on AI-driven financial models, supply chain optimization, or ethical AI in leadership, Mendoza ensures that students are prepared to leverage AI as a strategic asset in their careers.

What insights did you gain from using AI? My biggest insight from using AI has been the power of prompt engineering—understanding how to craft precise inputs to generate the most relevant insights. The way a question is framed directly influences AI’s output, making it a skill that enhances problem-solving, decision-making, and efficiency in business applications. Whether in data analysis, sales automation, or ethical leadership, I’ve seen how AI can streamline processes, uncover patterns, and drive smarter strategies.

However, AI is only as effective as the data and human oversight behind it. Bias in algorithms, ethical considerations, and critical thinking remain crucial. My experience with AI has taught me that the future of business isn’t about AI replacing professionals, but about leaders who can effectively integrate AI into decision-making while maintaining ethical and strategic oversight. Ultimately, those who master prompt engineering will be best positioned to harness AI’s full potential and drive responsible innovation.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire? The MBA classmate I most admire is Marlon Taylor from Chicago, who sadly passed away in December 2024. Marlon embodied selflessness, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. One specific instance that stands out happened just three weeks into my first year when I was struggling with a finance homework assignment at 3 AM ET. I sent a message in our class WhatsApp group asking if anyone was awake to help. Within minutes, I received DMs from two incredible classmates—Christie Cataldo and Marlon Taylor. Marlon immediately jumped on a video call with me and spent nearly an hour patiently walking me through the concepts until I fully understood them and could submit my assignment on time. This was just one of many times he showed up for me and others.

During our Mod Away exchange program, Marlon and I grew even closer, sharing meaningful conversations and experiences. He had an incredible way of making people feel seen, supported, and valued. His presence was a true gift to our Mendoza family, and his legacy of generosity and kindness will always live on. My prayer is that his soul continues to rest in peace and in the bosom of the Lord always.

What are the top two items on your professional bucket list? The top two items on my professional bucket list are:

1. Hosting and moderating global events featuring world leaders. I aspire to be a highly sought-after moderator and speaker, facilitating discussions with presidents, governors, the Pope, United Nations representatives, and Fortune 500 CEOs. Using my public speaking and storytelling skills, I want to shape global conversations on business, leadership, and social impact—and ultimately, command $1M per event as a featured personality.

2. Reviving and expanding the ‘Help the Less Privileged Foundation.’ In June 2014, I co-founded this initiative with close friends in Nigeria to provide mentorship, scholarships, and financial support for skill development to disadvantaged individuals. Unfortunately, due to financial instability, the foundation has been on hold. However, post-graduation, my goal is to gradually revive and scale it with my co-founding friends—starting in Nigeria, then expanding across Africa and beyond. My vision is to build strong partnerships with organizations that will ensure long-term impact and sustainability, empowering the next generation through education and opportunity.

What made Kingsley such an invaluable addition to the Class of 2025?

“I am honored to provide my highest recommendation for Kingsley Ukaulor, an outstanding student ambassador and exemplary leader at the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business’ Master of Business Administration program. Kingsley’s leadership is anchored in his extensive experience as a product and business development analyst in finance and the energy sector in Lagos, Nigeria. He is a natural leader whose integrity and character inspire those around him. His dedication to his principles and his relentless passion for strategic leadership sets him apart. Kingsley seamlessly integrates innovative business solutions with a steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of growth, excellence, and long-term value creation through meaningful partnerships.

Since beginning his MBA journey, Kingsley has excelled academically and made an indelible impact through his service to others—particularly through his work with our Admissions team and the career-focused Technology Club. His commitment to elevating the student experience is evident in his willingness to challenge and encourage his peers, helping them broaden their perspectives and raise their aspirations. Faculty, staff, and classmates consistently recognize and admire his empathy and compassion.

One of the most profound demonstrations of Kingsley’s character came after a tragic loss within our community at the end of 2024. While many offered condolences, Kingsley took meaningful action—supporting classmates in managing daily responsibilities, checking in regularly, and providing unwavering support to the family at the memorial gathering. His kindness extended beyond words; he embodied care and resilience, ensuring that those around him felt seen and supported during a difficult time.

Kingsley has consistently stepped up, leaned in, and sought personal and professional growth opportunities throughout his time at Notre Dame. Even after securing and excelling in a coveted internship with Amazon, he remains reflective and intentional about his journey, always looking for ways to give back to the MBA community while staying true to his core values.

As Kingsley embarks on his post-Mendoza career, returning to Amazon in a highly impactful role, he is poised for remarkable success. His ability to navigate complex ethical and business challenges, lead diverse teams with differing perspectives, and cultivate consensus speaks to his exceptional leadership acumen. Kingsley is a clear, concise, and compelling communicator—both in writing and speech—who inspires confidence and action in those around him.

I strongly endorse Kingsley as an individual of exceptional promise and integrity. He is a leader who will continue to make meaningful contributions, not only to his organization but to the broader business community and society at large.”

Christine Gramhofer
Director of Graduate Student Life and Academic Operations
Mendoza College of Business
University of Notre Dame

DON’T MISS: MBAS TO WATCH: CLASS OF 2025

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