Don't Worry About Job Titles

Since graduating, Emma has worked her way up the ranks at Monzo, which has grown from twenty employees to over 1,500.

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"It's very exciting to be selected for the Alumni 100 list. The Business School has so many amazing alumni to choose from. It's an honour to be selected and recognised for my contributions since graduating."

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"It was really important to me to pick a school that valued having an international student body so I could learn about different perspectives and cultures."

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"One of my fondest memories was being in an international trade tutorial. We were debating the restrictions on US beef being imported into France. It was amazing to be in a setting where there were so many strong views influenced by a diverse student body. There are not many places where you can hold these debates with student representatives from so many different countries."

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

"I learnt a lot about teamwork. We had so many group projects at the Business School. Rarely were you put with the same person twice. It taught me a lot about bringing people together, getting them excited about a mission, and delivering on that mission."

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"Everything I've achieved at Monzo. I joined the team when there were around 20 employees and 1,000 customers. Four years later we're at over 1,500 employees and 4 million customers. There are many unique challenges working in a high-growth organisation. I've worn many hats while at Monzo and I'm most proud of my ability to context switch, learn new skills, and continue to contribute to such an exciting business."

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"Be humble. My first role at Monzo was their first customer support hire. I had a First Class Honours degree from Edinburgh and a Master's degree. If you're interested in the startup world don't worry about job titles. Figure out where you can make the biggest impact and scale yourself from there."