Gaylord's Story

Before my MBA

On completion of my Accountancy degree at the University of Zimbabwe, I joined KPMG Harare in Zimbabwe on three year training contract. During this period, I audited various companies in the manufacturing, transport and financial services and also successful completed my Chartered Accountants examinations. To fulfil my desire to gain international experience, I accepted a senior accountant role with KPMG's Cayman office with a remit to lead audits alternative investment vehicles including hedge funds, insurance captives and offshore trusts.

I then moved to London and after brief stints with KPMG and Morley Fund Management (Aviva's fund management), I joined GLG Partners LP's fund of hedge fund division. I used my knowledge of hedge fund structures and hedge fund service providers gained in Cayman to establish an operational due diligence function. In my almost three years, I ended up being in charge of all non investment management and non marketing activities for the division.

Why Cambridge?

I had the requisite technical experience in my sector, but needed insight from other areas of general management in order to progress further. The hard fact is that in financial services brand names of Universities matter. Cambridge's 800 year history and reputation for academic excellence will endure well after my generation. I was also attracted by the School's policy of attracting students from all over the world and ensuring no one country dominated an intake.

Diversity matters

The biggest take away from the programme for me was this diversity. I now have friends in every corner and in almost every field. The diversity of the class was above par with over 45 countries represented and made for melting pot of different cultures. This diversity made for enjoyable and fruitful consulting projects.

The University setting

Cambridge Judge Business School's location within such a traditional and revered institution - the University of Cambridge - makes for an ideal setting. I greatly enjoyed my interaction with Churchill College mates who were pursuing studies ranging from astrophysics to South African international relations. Furthermore, I took advantage of the general University activities like inter college sports tournaments and lectures by international distinguished guests hosted by other University faculties/departments.

Impact on my career

I wanted my MBA catapult me into the top echelons of the alternative investment industry. Having the Cambridge MBA opened doors for me as I sought a suitable post. The Cambridge MBA is seen as a seal of approval and a sign that you can excel in the business environment. Also being an alumnus of CJBS and Cambridge University opened up whole new networks from which to tap advice and potential opportunities. I have no doubt that securing my current role as Chief Financial Officer of a London based fund of hedge funds was to a great extent due to the Cambridge MBA.