For Bath alumnus Simone Zatti, it was the University’s academic and sporting reputation, as well as the city’s charm, that solidified his decision to enrol at the institution.
While he aimed for a career in management consulting – having thoroughly enjoyed the blend of strategic, financial and operational elements of his international management master’s – life took him down a different path after graduation. Read on to discover his journey.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
I chose to study at Bath for several reasons that made it the perfect fit for me. First and foremost, the University’s prestigious reputation – especially being named University of the Year by The Sunday Times the year I applied – played a major role in my decision. This recognition highlighted Bath’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
The city itself also appealed to me. Bath’s charming, cosy and historical atmosphere offered a unique environment that felt both welcoming and inspiring. It provided the perfect balance between vibrant city life and a peaceful, beautiful setting, which was important for both my academic and personal wellbeing.
The University’s world-class sports facilities were another significant draw. As someone who values maintaining an active lifestyle, I knew these resources would help me stay engaged in extracurricular activities.
Finally, Bath offered the master's in international management that I was looking for – a programme that aligned perfectly with my career aspirations.
Altogether, these factors made Bath an ideal choice for my postgraduate studies.
Did you have a particular career in mind when you chose your course?
When I chose to pursue a master's in international management, my goal was to build a career as a management consultant and work on a global scale. I was drawn to the versatility and breadth of the course, which I knew would equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex business challenges in various industries. I wanted a programme that would prepare me to navigate the intricacies of international markets, and Bath’s curriculum offered the perfect blend of strategic, financial and operational insights to help me achieve that ambition.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here?
I absolutely loved my time at Bath. One of the most memorable aspects was the lifelong friendships I made with people from all over the world. Despite being spread across different countries now, we’ve managed to stay in touch, which speaks to the strong bonds we formed during our studies.
Academically, I spent a lot of time in the library, which became my go-to study spot – especially during exam season when I even pulled a few all-nighters there!
Outside of academics, the University’s sport facilities were fantastic, and joining various societies gave me the chance to socialise and pursue interests beyond the classroom.
Some of my favorite memories in the city revolve around student nightlife. I fondly remember Wednesday nights at Opa, a Greek club, and Thursdays at Second Bridge – both were staples of our weekly routine and great places to unwind with friends. Bath’s unique blend of student life, history and a strong community made my time there unforgettable.
Describe your career journey since graduating.
Although I initially aimed for a career in management consulting, life took a different path, and I’m glad it did. After graduating, I found an opportunity with Hilti and moved to London. Twelve years later, I’m still with the company, now working in San Francisco as a division manager.
My career journey at Hilti has been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve held various roles across different markets, which has helped me gain a deep understanding of the business and the construction industry.
I started as account manager and Hilti quickly propelled me further in the company. I led a team in London, then moved to Manchester and joined the marketing team. Shortly after I was asked to write a strategy to attack a niche market (data centers) and was able to hire my own team of sales and engineers, and managed the team across all Northern Europe. Five years ago, Hilti shipped me overseas to the United States where I became Hilti’s marketing director on the west coast based out of San Francisco. Back in March I became the division manager, in charge of approximately 100 people generating $80 million a year in revenue.
No days are similar in my role, which makes it super dynamic! A typical day in my current role involves overseeing business strategy, working closely with sales and marketing teams, and driving initiatives to grow our market presence. I also spend time mentoring and developing teams, which is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.
How did your studies help you to develop, professionally and/or personally?
My studies at Bath played a significant role in shaping both my professional and personal development. The master's in international management gave me a solid foundation in critical business concepts like strategy, finance and leadership – all of which have been invaluable in my career. It also helped me hone my analytical and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in my current role as a division manager.
On a personal level, the experience of studying in such an international environment broadened my perspective and enhanced my ability to work with diverse teams. The group projects and collaborative nature of the programme taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication. Additionally, managing the academic workload while balancing extracurricular activities helped me develop time management and organisational skills that I continue to rely on today.
Overall, my time at Bath prepared me to tackle complex challenges and equipped me with the tools to thrive in a fast-paced, global career.
What advice would you give to prospective students thinking about studying your course at Bath?
For prospective students considering the MSc in International Management at Bath, my advice is to fully embrace the experience – both academically and socially. The course offers a wealth of knowledge that will equip you for a variety of career paths, so take advantage of every opportunity to deepen your understanding of the material. Don’t hesitate to engage with your professors and peers, as the diverse perspectives you'll encounter will enrich your learning and broaden your thinking.
As for new graduates entering the industry, be open to where your career journey may take you. I didn’t end up where I initially planned, but I’m grateful for the path I followed. Stay curious, adaptable and always look for ways to grow, both in your role and personally. Building strong relationships and developing a solid network will also be invaluable in your career progression. Lastly, don’t be afraid to take risks – sometimes the unexpected turns lead to the most rewarding opportunities
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