Shivin Sharma: bridging strategy and finance

A brief overview of your previous work experience/career path up to this point

Prior to Cambridge, I worked at Bain and Company and Boston Consulting Group, advising clients on growth strategy, market entry and performance improvement initiatives across industries. These engagements required structured thinking, rigorous analysis and the ability to communicate clearly with senior stakeholders. I developed a strong foundation in breaking down complex problems into actionable insights and supporting recommendations with robust data analysis.

I later transitioned into an operating role as Strategy Lead at an AI driven technology firm in the United States, where I led a 37 member cross functional team across geographies. This experience shifted my perspective from advisory to execution. I was responsible not only for designing strategic initiatives, but also for driving implementation and measurable financial outcomes. Working across different markets and teams strengthened my leadership capabilities and deepened my appreciation for how financial discipline underpins sustainable growth.

Why you decided to apply to Cambridge, and what attracted you to the MFin programme

After several years in strategy consulting and operating roles, I realised that many of the most consequential strategic decisions ultimately hinge on capital allocation, valuation and financial structuring. While consulting strengthened my problem structuring and commercial judgment, I wanted to deepen my technical foundation in corporate finance and capital markets. The MFin at Cambridge offered the analytical rigor and global perspective necessary to complement my consulting background and prepare me for leadership roles at the intersection of finance and strategy.

Beyond technical development, I was drawn to Cambridge for its tradition of intellectual intensity combined with practical relevance. I wanted to study finance not only as an academic discipline, but as a tool for making better decisions under uncertainty. The programme’s close interaction with faculty, industry practitioners and a highly accomplished peer group made it clear that this would be an environment that challenges assumptions and sharpens thinking at a high level.

What has been the most valuable aspect of the MFin so far?

The most valuable aspect of the MFin has been the depth and precision of financial analysis embedded throughout the curriculum. Courses in valuation, derivatives and corporate finance have sharpened my ability to evaluate risk, assess capital structures and think critically about investment decisions. The programme has strengthened my quantitative confidence and reinforced the importance of disciplined financial reasoning in strategic contexts.

Equally impactful has been the diversity of the cohort. Engaging with peers from different professional and cultural backgrounds has broadened my perspective on how finance is applied across industries and geographies. Classroom discussions often extend beyond theory into practical debate, which has enhanced my ability to articulate and defend positions with clarity and evidence. This environment has accelerated both my technical and intellectual growth.

Your thoughts and feelings on being awarded an MFin scholarship

Receiving the scholarship is both an honour and a responsibility. It reflects recognition of the journey that brought me to Cambridge and reinforces my commitment to excellence within the programme. It motivates me to contribute actively to the academic and social fabric of the MFin community.

The scholarship has also provided stability during an intensive academic year. It has allowed me to focus fully on mastering complex material, engaging deeply with peers and faculty, and thoughtfully planning my next professional chapter. I view it not only as support, but as a vote of confidence that carries an obligation to represent the programme with integrity and ambition.

What are your aspirations after the MFin?

In the long term, I aspire to work in roles that combine financial expertise with enterprise level strategy, particularly within global and technology driven organisations. I am drawn to positions where rigorous financial analysis informs revenue growth, capital allocation and international expansion decisions. I am especially interested in environments where strategic thinking and financial discipline must operate together at scale.

Ultimately, I aim to contribute to organisations navigating complex global markets, where thoughtful capital deployment and disciplined growth strategies determine competitive advantage. My goal is to operate at the intersection of finance, strategy and leadership, bringing both analytical precision and executional depth to high impact decisions.