Matthew Govender

MBA 2021, South Africa

“Action is the Foundation key to all successes” Pablo Picasso

I am an Instrumentation, Control & Automation Engineer in the Oil & Gas Industry. My professional role includes maintaining SCADA and PLC systems across various company operation sites. I also work on implementing new projects.

I am looking at progressing into a managerial role, learning more about business, finance and economics whilst incorporating my engineering skills. My professional interests are learning about new technology, as technology in industrial automation changes according to the fourth Industrial Revolution and learning about the impact of technology on business.

My interests outside of study/work include travelling, meeting people from different cultures and keeping up with the latest local and international news.

Achievements

  • Achieving PrEng status (Professional Engineer Status) with the Engineering Council of South Africa by meeting the 11 outcomes required to be registered as a Professional Engineer in South Africa (May 2021).
  • Introducing SCADA Control and Automation on a heating system project, requiring minimal user intervention by automating the entire process and increasing safety by automation.
  • Implemented a cost saving project by introducing a control system to run cooling tower motors based on control loop feedback, reducing power consumption and saving costs, especially during the winter months.

What attracted you to the Kent MBA programme and why?

The Kent MBA is highly ranked within the UK, which is why I decided to choose the programme.

I have also had the opportunity to visit Kent on a few occasions after graduating from my Engineering Degree in South Africa. Kent is a beautiful part of England with both rolling hills and seaside towns in close proximity. Being away from the hustle and bustle of London, Kent has the perfect environment conducive to learning.

What were your motivations for undertaking an MBA?

My main motivation for undertaking the MBA is career growth. I want to gain exposure in the field of International Business, Finance and Economics and work with people from different cultures.

Aspiration

I would like to progress into a managerial position where I can combine my technical skills with business skills, finding cost effective solutions to problems in industry. I would like the Kent MBA to help me develop the necessary management and business skills in order to achieve this goal.

Advice

Sometimes to see progression we have to do things differently, deviating from the norm. There is always uncertainty when moving out of your comfort zone. My best advice would be to take a well calculated risk rather than taking no risk at all.