Skye McGregor

BA Philosophy and Logic (2015)

Skye McGregor is a manager in risk consulting for KMPG New Zealand. He graduated from Manchester with a BA in Philosophy and Logic in 2015 after studying as a mature student. Here, Skye talks about what he does now and how his time at Manchester has shaped his journey since graduation.

My current role and how I got there

I studied Philosophy at the University of Manchester and achieved a first class degree as a mature student. Following my undergraduate degree, I decided to study for an MSc in Project Management at Salford Business School, where I also gained some work experience.

After completing my postgraduate course, I was offered a contracting role as a co-ordinator/analyst in financial services. After a few months, I applied for a permanent role in the same business as a Risk Manager.

The work was a great way into the industry and I spent considerable time outside of work gaining further postgraduate qualifications. Changes in my roles and responsibilities at work allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and gain more credibility, which then enabled me to apply for an Operational Risk & Compliance Manager role in the biggest bank in New Zealand. I spent just over two years at ANZ Bank New Zealand, before being offered a job in risk management with KMPG New Zealand.

My experience at Manchester

The Philosophy degree at Manchester was the best first step I could have taken to get me to where I am now. The subject allowed me to develop the way I think, particularly concerning critical thinking and logic, and apply that to projects, strategy, risks, and business in general.

I found the degree modules, the lecturers and professors, the buildings, and the vibe of the university very conducive to success and a memorable, positive experience.

What I hope to do next

Over the next few years, I’m hoping to continue working abroad, for example in Hong Kong, Singapore or Canada, before eventually moving back to Manchester where I would like to return to the University of Manchester to study for an MBA with the Business School.