Before joining the MSc in Operations, Project and Supply Chain Management (OPSCM) at The University of Manchester, I had already built experience in operations excellence, digital transformation, and continuous improvement across logistics, consulting, and port operations. I worked at DP World, leading business transformation and Lean Management initiatives following major acquisitions in Peru, and previously at Ernst & Young as a Business Consultant, delivering strategic and operational improvement projects across multiple industries, including banking, ports, insurance, and oil & gas.

I chose the MSc OPSCM programme because I was looking for a world-class university that combined academic rigour with practical industry application. The University of Manchester stood out for its strong reputation in operations and supply chain management, its international environment, and its focus on solving real business challenges through innovation, analytics, and leadership.

One of the most memorable aspects of the programme was the opportunity to collaborate with talented professionals from different countries and industries, which significantly broadened my perspective on global supply chains and operational strategy. I was honoured to win the BP Challenge competition by presenting a business solution to a real industry case, and later received the Dean’s Award in recognition of my academic achievements. In addition, I had the opportunity to represent the programme at the CIPS Institute through my dissertation titled “Strategies for Managing Hotspots within Small and Medium Food Enterprises in Cold Chain Logistics”, which explored operational resilience and efficiency in temperature-controlled supply chains.

Since graduating, I have continued developing my career in the port and logistics sector. I currently work at APM Terminals as Delivery Manager – Operations, leading a team of 150 people responsible for the end-to-end operation of general cargo services, covering approximately 80% of the national market volume in this segment. My role focuses on operational excellence, automation, Lean transformation, and large-scale optimisation projects. Among the most significant achievements have been reducing truck turn time by 67% through cross-functional KAIZEN initiatives, leading the automation of 13 terminal gates, and contributing to the operational design of a new silo complex that increased storage capacity from 25,000 to 85,000 tonnes.

The MSc OPSCM programme played a fundamental role in strengthening both my technical and leadership capabilities. It enhanced my strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, and ability to manage complex operational environments with a global perspective. More importantly, it reinforced the importance of continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation when leading transformational initiatives.

My advice to future applicants would be to make the most of every opportunity the programme offers beyond the classroom. Engage actively with peers, participate in competitions and industry projects, and challenge yourself to think critically and strategically. The experience can be truly transformational, both professionally and personally, if approached with commitment and curiosity.

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