About Riya…

Riya Kansal studied MSc Development Finance at the Global Development Institute. She graduated from The University of Manchester in 2024.

She now works in Liverpool as an Accounts Assistant at Banner Chemicals. Banner Chemicals is a leading UK chemical manufacturer. They have won awards for their sustainability and achievements in international trade.

The present – what can you do with a Development Finance degree?

What does your role as an Accounts Assistant involve?

My role as an Accounts Assistant involves:

• processing supplier invoices;
• maintaining accurate financial records;
• supporting month-end activities such as journals and accruals;
• ensuring compliance with VAT regulations;
• preparing reports to improve financial decision-making.

How did the MSc Development Finance help prepare you for your career?

My MSc in Development Finance provided a strong foundation in areas like:

• risk management;
• financial analysis;
• project financing;
• These are directly relevant to my accounting responsibilities.

It also strengthened my analytical and research skills, particularly through my dissertation and data-driven projects. Additionally, working closely with peers and mentors enhanced my communication and problem-solving abilities. I apply these skills daily in a collaborative work environment.

What skills or expertise from studying Development Finance have been most helpful?

One of the most valuable skills has been financial and data analysis. I use these skills regularly when reviewing financial statements and supporting reporting processes.

My knowledge of risk management has also been especially useful in my current role. In particular, this knowledge helps me ensure compliance and understand financial controls.

What has career after the MSc Development Finance been what you expected? Or has anything surprised you?

One unique aspect of my journey is how quickly I transitioned from my studies to my accounting role. I went from an academic focus on development finance into a hands-on accounting role in a different country.

Moving from India to the UK and adapting to a new professional environment was both challenging and rewarding. It pushed me to quickly develop practical skills, understand UK financial regulations, and build confidence in a fast-paced workplace. This experience has made me more adaptable and open to new opportunities.

The past – what stands out about studying Development Finance?

Why this course at this university? What made you choose to study Development Finance at Manchester?

I chose to study Development Finance at the University of Manchester because of:

• its strong global reputation;
• the course’s focus on real-world financial challenges in developing economies;
• the combination of practical modules* with the university’s research-led teaching.
  *like risk management and project financing

Manchester’s diverse and vibrant student community was also a major factor in my decision.

What has your career been like as a Development Finance graduate? Was the transition like from being a student to working in accounting?

After graduating, I gained practical experience as an Accounts Assistant at Banner Chemicals. In this role, I manage high-volume invoice processing and support month-end close activities with strong accuracy. I’m particularly proud of my work improving reporting efficiency and maintaining audit readiness.

My career path has been a natural progression into accounting. This kind of work builds on both my academic background and my hands-on experience in finance.

Looking back, what stands out about your time studying Development Finance at Manchester? What was most influential?

One of the most influential moments was working on my dissertation. For this, I analysed credit risk practices in microfinance institutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. It deepened my interest in how financial systems operate in practice and strengthened my analytical skills.

I also found studying risk management particularly impactful. It gave me practical frameworks that I now apply in my job.

Finally, collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds stands out. This further broadened my perspective on global finance.

Was The University of Manchester able to support you in your career after graduation?

Yes, I made use of the University’s Careers service, particularly for CV reviews and application guidance. I also benefited from online resources and job portals provided by the university to identify relevant opportunities.

The future – what can the MSc Development Finance help you achieve?

What are the next steps for your career? What do you hope to accomplish with the skills and knowledge you’ve gained?

I aim to continue developing my expertise in accounting and financial analysis. This will help me progress towards a more senior role such as a Management Accountant or Financial Analyst.

In the future, I also plan to pursue a professional qualification like ACCA or CIMA to strengthen my technical knowledge.

Ultimately, I hope to combine my background in development finance with industry experience to contribute to impactful financial decision-making.

Do you have any advice for current and aspiring students? What does a Development Finance student need to know?

Make the most of practical opportunities such as internships, projects, and networking events. These will help bridge the gap between theory and real-world experience.

Engage actively with your coursework, especially data analysis and research-based assignments. These skills are highly valuable in the workplace.

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek support from university resources. Getting the right support can make a big difference in your career journey.

The MSc in Development Finance is taught by the Global Development Institute at Manchester’s School of Environment, Education and Development. You can find out more about what it’s like to be an Environmental Governance student on the Global Development Institute Student Stories page.

Related