Co-creating with Exciting Clients

Charles recalls how his sessions studying on the University of Edinburgh campus shaped his passions and provided him with skills he still draws on today.

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

"Well, it's an amazing feeling! I absolutely cherished my time spent at Edinburgh (with all my heart), so to be recognised as someone who continues to bear the torch is a very special feeling! There are some very impressive people on this list."

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

"Coming from Texas, my enthusiasm for the University of Edinburgh Business School was initially driven by the lure of living in Scotland's capital city! Edinburgh's charm and vivid history drove ultimately my imagination and curiosity into action. Of course, the University's own global reputation for excellence (and ranking) was appealing too!"

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"I'll never forget spending weeks (months?) on end writing essays and finishing group projects in the Business School 'bunkers' on Buccleuch Place. There was a lot of passion in the work we leaned into the most, and those sessions powered by caffeine and ginseng are oddly some of my fondest. Throughout my experience, I was offered incredible professors, intimate classes (that often ended in applause), strong mentorship from University leadership, and awe-inspiring University buildings."

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

"The ability to find common ground with anybody. Finding shared purpose with a diverse team, a client team, or a new business partner is a skill I rely on to lead effectively. At the Business School, I studied alongside a very diverse set of students from around the globe. Through our work together on group projects or case studies, we strengthened our abilities to connect with and understand one another, finding creative ways to leverage individual strengths to amplify the group output towards success."

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"I'm really proud to be working at Jack Dorsey's payment company, Square—it's a noble organisation with rockstar leadership. Looking back on some unique projects, I'd say I'm most proud of our accomplishments in the sports stadiums and events industries. More specifically, our work with the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center in San Francisco is really important for our company, showing we can push our financial technology into larger, more complex business environments. It's fun to co-create with exciting clients!"

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

"I'd suggest to current students that they need to emerge ready to go deep. All of us know that there are more distractions than ever before, but there's opportunity for those that are ready to take on ambitious projects and tap into deep work. The ability to learn quickly and give focus to what you are doing will be an edge for anyone looking to stay agile in the fast-changing world of business and technology!"