Mark Taylor - MBA Business Administration graduate

Current employer: Taylor Consulting Group Limited

Current job title: Chief Executive Officer

Current location: Greater London

“I would strongly recommend undertaking a course with University of Plymouth. The Business School is recognised as one of the finest in the country and a qualification from such an establishment is very sought after in the current employment marketplace.”

Tell us about your career path since graduation.
As a 'mature' student, I was already at Deputy Director level when I undertook my MBA. The qualification and the specialist subject matter knowledge gained at University of Plymouth enabled me to take the next step in my career and become a CEO.
Has your career path changed since graduation?
Yes; in 2012 I established my own company as a bespoke management consultancy based in Westminster, London. My company now provides specialist supply chain optimisation expertise throughout the UK and UAE.
What, if anything, would you do differently if you could?
Nothing. I would not change any aspect of my past or career to date. I am, and always have been, a the glass is half full type of chap; all of the ups and downs of the business world add to the rich tapestry of life and you must learn from your mistakes or failures. Every cloud really does have a silver lining: you just have to find it.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?
Be flexible, learn to adapt, to improvise and above all, give 100 per cent in everything you attempt. Never, ever give up - it is almost impossible to be defeated as long as you never give up. 
How did studying at Plymouth help you?
The MBA at University of Plymouth put the academic cherry on top of a 30 year vocational cake. It has, undoubtedly, enhanced my academic and career portfolio.
Do you stay in touch with other University of Plymouth alumni or lecturers?
Certainly - during my time spent at University of Plymouth , I have formed some lifelong friendships both amongst my peers and members of other faculties on campus. I find it incredibly important to stay in touch with the academic staff, one never stops learning. I find it fascinating (and essential in the modern business world) to keep up-to-date with current academic research, not to mention, being able to access the vast academic and professional knowledge that the University of Plymouth academic staff possess. Staying in touch is of course, superbly enabled by the University of Plymouth Alumni Network. Through their numerous alumni networking events (worldwide) over the year, I often meet up with old friends, alumni and academic staff alike. I am the Chairman of the Plymouth University, London Alumni Committee which launched in 2017. The committee has established a thriving network of Plymouth graduates who live and work in London, which creates opportunities for alumni to engage with each other, the University and our students. 
Would you recommend undertaking a course with University of Plymouth , and why?
I would strongly recommend undertaking a course with University of Plymouth. The Business School is recognised as one of the finest in the country and a qualification from such an establishment is very sought after in the current employment marketplace.
Make the most out of your peers and academic staff at University of Plymouth, there is a wealth of knowledge (both vocational and academic) that you can access. Exploit every offer of assistance; attend every lecture and networking event (even those that you think hold no relevance to your studies). You never know where a simple conversation will lead and what future opportunities it could present to you.
Photo of students at graduation