Tim Puddy MSc

The course

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School (UEBS)?

I have been fortunate to have visited many great cities but in my opinion, Edinburgh stands above the rest. With its world-class university, cutting-edge research and the most inquisitive students, it was a very easy choice.

What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?

The dynamic of not only being immersed in HR in the context of global businesses but also being part of a hugely diverse class. With classmates from across the world, with such varied backgrounds, cultures and insights, they provided even more colour to what was already a fascinating and intellectually challenging course.

Your career

Can you tell us about your career before and after graduating?

Prior to my Masters, I held junior HR roles within generalist and talent and development areas.

After graduating, I have specialised in reward, working exclusively in financial services. I am currently working in London for a global Canadian-owned corporate and investment bank.

I was able to experience significantly different HR practices in business.

How did your degree prepare you for your career?

It provided a varied but extensive theoretical knowledge of HR practices as well as helping to hone my ability to think critically, assess practices and clearly articulate solutions. It also gave me an appreciation of others who have different backgrounds, values and opinions to myself.

Masters of Change

What are the changes you have been able to make in your chosen field, of which you are most proud?

Being able to lead the market in implementing a cost-of-living support scheme to support staff financially during unprecedented economic challenges in 2022.

How did your studies at the Business School help you to make those changes?

The course provided me with an ability to evaluate multiple areas of a problem before coming to a reasoned, logical and robust solution.

What key things that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

My time at the Business School taught me to appreciate differences and to recognise the value of others having different values, cultures and insights.

Course highlights and advice

What are your best memories on the programme?

Having the opportunity to visit Helsinki on the programme and experience significantly different HR practices in business.

What one piece of advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?

Remember to learn from one another during the course!