WINNER | Utsav Oza
Prior to starting his MBA at INSEAD, Utsav’s professional experience was in corporate venture capital sector with a focus on investing in technologies for decarbonisation of heavy industries. He started as an Aerospace Engineer before progressing to a team manager leading 20 consultants. His early experience was primarily around aerospace research projects where he was responsible for taking ideas from TRL-1 (Technology Readiness Level) to TRL-5. During his last job at ArcelorMittal’s XCarb Innovation Fund, Utsav played a key role in reviewing and investing in companies within sectors such as clean energy, nuclear reactors, long-duration energy storage, and carbon capture.
What do you hope to achieve through your MBA experience?
With my combined experience in engineering and startup investments, I have seen first-hand the potential for innovation to address the most pressing issues of our time. During the MBA, I plan to learn more about venture capital and private equity so I can make a real difference in the world by investing in innovative companies and green projects that can address climate change.
Where do you see yourself career-wise in five years’ time?
Post-MBA, I plan to continue working in the Private Equity and Venture Capital (PEVC) sector. In the long term, I plan to lead a climate-tech-focused investment fund and hope to play an advisory role in an international organisation and/or a government body to support the green transition.
What are your hopes of being part of the SMF network after business school?
Meeting our 2050 net zero goals will require significant leaps in the technology sector. The SMF network will give me access to professionals from diverse sectors who can provide expert opinions on upcoming net-zero technologies along with their economic impact. This knowledge would allow me to stay updated in the climate tech sector and align my financial investment thesis with a robust scientific/engineering approach.
How do you hope to support SMF after you graduate from business school?
I would like to:
- Participate as a mentor to young individuals.
- Get involved in SMF initiatives such as Engineers in Business Competitions.
- Play an active part to ensure the SMF network continues its giving back culture to create a positive ripple effect.
How did you learn about the SMF scholarship?
I found out about the SMF scholarship through the financial support website section of INSEAD.
How was your experience of applying for the scholarship?
My experience of applying to the SMF scholarship was seamless. During the application process, the SMF team was always quick to guide and answer my queries. In addition, the application questions helped me to reflect on my journey and reinforced my conviction to pursue the MBA. After the final interview, the panel members provided me with valuable feedback and guidance on how I can make an impact by combining my previous experiences with MBA.
What difference has the scholarship made to you?
Without the financial support offered by the SMF scholarship, I wouldn’t have considered pursuing an MBA.