This summer we are proud to feature a series of interviews with recent School of Continuing Studies graduates who shared with us their experience at the School and offer advice to future SCS students. This week we were pleased to speak with Casper Richard Roy who graduated from the Certificate in Product Management this June.

Could you describe your educational and career background prior to enrolling at York University’s School of Continuing Studies? 

Before enrolling at York University’s School of Continuing Studies, I earned a Master of Business Administration with a major in Marketing from North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh in 2020. This program provided a strong understanding of marketing principles, strategic brand management, consumer behavior, and market analysis, laying the groundwork for my future career in marketing and product management. 

In addition to formal education, I pursued professional certifications including Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certification, Advanced Google Analytics, PRINCE2® Practitioner in Project Management, and Certified Scrum Master (CSM®) and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO®). These certifications equipped me with practical tools and methodologies essential in the fast-paced marketing and product management landscape. 

My career journey includes impactful roles at renowned telecommunication organizations, focusing on driving successful product launches and go-to-market strategies for SaaS, ICT, and digital products. Notably, at Axiata Group Berhad, I held key leadership positions such as Senior Product Marketing Manager, Implementation Project Manager, and Product Marketing Manager for Loyalty. These roles involved spearheading integrated marketing campaigns that resulted in significant lead generation and increased sales, including the increase in market awareness and growth in qualified leads from B2B accounts. 

As an Implementation Project Manager, I outlined product timelines for new product introduction (NPI) launches and successfully implemented cloud-based CRM systems, resulting in tangible improvements in customer relationship management and sales productivity. Earlier, as a B2B Product Manager at Bharti Airtel, I honed my skills in orchestrating successful product launches and managing regional digital marketing campaigns with stringent deadlines. 

These diverse experiences have honed my expertise in product positioning, project management, market research, and campaign management, instilling a deep appreciation for the strategic intricacies of go-to-market strategies and the critical role of performance metrics and analysis in driving marketing success. 

In summary, my educational journey, complemented by professional certifications and extensive career experiences, has been instrumental in shaping my proficiency in marketing and product management, providing a solid foundation for my continued educational and professional development at York University’s School of Continuing Studies. 

What inspired you to continue your education at this stage in your life? 

My motivation to continue my education at this stage in my life stems from a deep-seated desire for personal and professional growth. I am inspired by the opportunity to expand my knowledge, acquire new skills, and stay abreast of the latest developments in my field. Additionally, I am driven by the prospect of enhancing my career prospects, taking on new challenges, and making a meaningful contribution to the industry. This commitment to lifelong learning reflects my dedication to self-improvement and my aspiration to reach new heights of achievement in my chosen career path. 

What drives your passion in your chosen career field? 

My passion in marketing and product management is driven by the dynamic nature of the field. I am fascinated by the ever-evolving consumer behavior, technological advancements, and the challenge of developing and implementing innovative strategies to meet market demands. The ability to influence consumer perceptions, drive product adoption, and shape market trends motivates me to continually seek growth and excellence in my career.  

Why did you choose York University’s School of Continuing Studies for your program? 

I chose York University’s School of Continuing Studies for its reputation as a leading institution offering comprehensive, industry-relevant programs. The school’s commitment to providing practical, hands-on learning experiences, along with its esteemed faculty and diverse student body, made it the ideal environment for me to further develop my skills and expand my professional network. 

How would you describe your experience with the instructors at the School? 

My experience with the instructors at the School of Continuing Studies has been exceptional. The instructors bring a wealth of industry knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, enriching the learning process. Their dedication to fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment has been instrumental in my academic and professional growth. 

What was it like to collaborate with your peers throughout the program? 

Collaborating with my peers throughout the program has been enriching. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of my fellow students have provided a unique perspective on various topics and have facilitated stimulating discussions and collaborative projects. This collaborative environment has not only enhanced my learning but has also broadened my horizons and enriched my overall educational experience. 

Can you share a moment from your time at the School that you are particularly proud of? 

Certainly! One particularly proud moment from my time at the School was when my team and I collaborated on an assignment that received widespread praise from everyone involved. Despite working asynchronously, we effectively coordinated our efforts to deliver a high-quality assignment that exceeded expectations. 

Our ability to seamlessly communicate and contribute to the project, despite not being in the same physical location, showcased our strong teamwork, organization, and adaptability. The positive feedback we received from both our peers and instructors not only validated our hard work but also highlighted the effectiveness of our asynchronous collaboration. 

This experience not only bolstered my confidence in remote teamwork but also emphasized the importance of clear communication and mutual support in achieving outstanding results. It was a testament to our collective dedication and skills, and it served as a defining moment in our academic journey.  

What are your plans for your career or further education after graduating from your program? 

After graduating from the program, I aim to leverage the knowledge and skills acquired to take on more challenging roles in marketing and product management. I also intend to pursue continuous professional development and potentially explore further education in specialized areas that align with my career aspirations. 

Looking ahead, what are your long-term career goals, and how do you feel your program has prepared you to achieve them? 

My long-term career goals center around assuming leadership roles in marketing and product management, driving strategic initiatives, and contributing to the growth and success of innovative organizations. The program at York University’s School of Continuing Studies has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and effective marketing strategies. Additionally, the practical projects and industry-relevant curriculum have honed my analytical, strategic, and communication skills, which are essential for leadership positions. These experiences have instilled in me the confidence and competence to pursue my long-term career aspirations with conviction.