Kareem Magdy: Investment leadership through strategy

Before the Cambridge Master of Finance (MFin)

I have worked across 3 main areas, corporate and investment banking, wealth management and consulting, in key business hubs across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as in Switzerland. These different experiences allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of financial markets and client advisory from both institutional and strategic perspectives.

Why the MFin and why Cambridge?

I came to Cambridge Judge Business School because I wanted to strengthen my technical skills and fill the gaps in my financial knowledge as I prepare myself to take on a leading position within a financial institution. The Master of Finance’s combination of academic rigour, practical focus and access to a global network made it the ideal programme to support my professional growth.

What I am looking forward to

I’m most looking forward to being surrounded by some of the brightest and most driven minds in finance, learning from world-class faculty and engaging with the wider Cambridge ecosystem. I’m excited by the opportunity to attend talks outside of my discipline, like astronomy and physics. Connect with people from diverse backgrounds and be part of an environment that enriches me beyond professionally but personally.

What I am hoping to achieve this year and how it will contribute towards my post-MFin career

I want to deepen my knowledge in my specific areas of interest, from behavioural finance to quantitative asset allocation, fixed income analysis and long-term investing. These are some of the electives I have chosen to build a solid foundation in asset management, which is the field I intend to pursue and lead in after graduation.

My thoughts and feelings on being awarded an MFin scholarship

Being awarded the MFin scholarship means a great deal to me. It recognises the work I’ve put into my career so far and gives me the confidence to aim even higher. It also motivates me to give my absolute best this year both in the classroom and within the Cambridge community and to eventually pay it forward to others who follow a similar path.