Ahmed Jahazaib

Journey to Bradford 

"I received a degree in Engineering in 2005 from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) located in Islamabad, Pakistan. After completing my degree in 2005, I quickly recognised a significant gap in the market which is the lack of strong management within technical firms. This insight led me to embark on a transformative journey and study at the University of Bradford. This decision was fuelled by the institution's top-ranking Business School. My academic pursuits were not just about gaining a degree; they were about acquiring the skills and knowledge to address a critical industry need.

"Completing my studies in International Business and Management equipped me with a global perspective, an understanding of diverse business environments, and the ability to lead and innovate in the technical sector."

Career journey 

"Upon completing my studies, I set forth to apply my unique blend of engineering acumen and business savvy to the technical world. It has been instrumental in bridging the gap that I identified, bringing sophisticated management practices to technical firms that were previously lagging.

"My work has not only enhanced operational efficiencies but also fostered a culture of strategic thinking and leadership within the industry. I'm currently working with SRG Global which is listed as one of ASX 500 companies in Australia, I'm responsible for providing learning and development initiatives throughout the organisation which are a blend of technical and managerial skills."

Biggest successes 

"My biggest successes in my career so far include having the adaptability to work with various markets, so far I have worked with four different international markets and all of them have been great so far."

Working in the industry 

"Being a Learning & Development (L&D) manager in an engineering firm isn't just a job; it's a privilege. Here's why I find it so fulfilling working in the industry:

"Fostering Innovation: Engineers are at the forefront of innovation, constantly pushing boundaries and developing new technologies. As their L&D manager, I get to play a crucial role in supporting this growth. By designing and delivering training programmes that equip them with the latest skills and knowledge, I see firsthand how their capabilities flourish. It's incredibly rewarding to be part of their journey as they solve complex problems and create solutions that impact the world.

"A World of Variety: The engineering landscape is vast and ever-evolving, from cutting-edge software development to sustainable energy solutions. This ensures my role is never monotonous. I'm constantly challenged to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and tailor my L&D programmes accordingly. This variety keeps me intellectually stimulated and fuels my passion for learning.

"Problem-Solving with a Purpose: Engineers are inherently problem-solvers. As their L&D manager, I get to partner with them to identify skill gaps and develop solutions that address their specific needs. Whether it's designing a programme to enhance their communication skills or implement new software, I enjoy collaborating with them to find effective solutions that ultimately benefit both the individual and the company.

"Witnessing Growth and Impact: Seeing the positive impact of my work is incredibly motivating. When I witness an engineer confidently applying a new skill learned in a training programme to solve a complex problem, or when I receive feedback about how my programmes have helped them advance their careers, it fills me with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Knowing my work directly contributes to their growth and the success of the company is truly rewarding.

"A Community of Passionate Minds: Engineering firms are hubs of intellectual curiosity and problem-solving prowess. Surrounded by such bright and passionate minds is incredibly inspiring. It fosters an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, and I get to learn alongside the engineers, expanding my own knowledge and expertise."

Career advice 

"Give everything a shot: I follow this: ‘If you are unsure about something, say YES’; You could meet your soulmate at a party you said No to, or may find a new passion when you give something a go. The second advice would be: If you know something is easily reversible: make a decision quickly. When you know the consequences are irreversible only delay it then."