Graduate Kieran Lawson chose the BA (Hons) Business Management course at QMU because it offered something unique: the flexibility to learn and specialise in different areas of business within a friendly and supportive campus environment.
During his time at QMU, Kieran took full advantage of the course's practical learning approach, the personalised support from teaching staff, and a variety of student services. Beyond academics, he balanced his studies with a part-time job, launched a landscaping business, and even served as vice-captain of the QMU Football Team.
Since graduating, Kieran has excelled in leadership roles, including his current position as Branch Manager at Hertz and his role as UK European Works Council Representative. His story demonstrates the diverse opportunities a business degree can open up!
Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
I chose to study at Queen Margaret University because of its reputation for offering a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in business. The Business Management course stood out to me because of the flexibility it provided, allowing me to focus on areas like Digital Marketing, Human Resource Management, or Analytics. Additionally, the small class sizes and supportive environment were really appealing, as I knew I’d get personalised attention from lecturers and could engage more easily in the learning process.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I really enjoyed the hands-on approach to learning, especially how the program balanced practical case studies with real-world applications. The opportunity to learn from industry professionals through guest speakers and experienced lecturers were invaluable. It made the learning experience feel relevant to the current business landscape. The lecturers I had such as Susanne Ross and Craig Cathcart - were so helpful and friendly and I really enjoyed coming to university to learn. I also stayed on Campus one year - this was a great way for me to learn independence and make new friends.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
I particularly enjoyed the group projects. These assignments gave me the opportunity to apply what we learned in class directly to business scenarios, which was great for building both my teamwork and problem-solving skills.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
The lecturers at QMU were incredibly supportive. They were approachable and always available for one-on-one discussions, which helped me when I faced challenges with the course material. Their feedback was constructive, and they were always keen to make sure I understood the core concepts before moving on to more advanced topics.
What challenges did you face with the course and/or university life? How did you overcome them?
One of the challenges I faced was managing the workload during particularly busy times, especially when balancing group work with individual assignments. To overcome this, I made sure to stay organised and set clear priorities, which helped me manage my time more effectively. I also took advantage of the support resources at the University, like the academic support and time management workshops offered by the Effective Learning Service. Unfortunately- like many – my fourth year was affected by Covid 19- so we had to adapt to online learning- which I found hard- after all my life I had been taught in person- this was the new norm.
Did you take part in a placement as part of your course and if so, can you tell us a little about that experience?
While I didn’t take part in a formal placement during my course, I worked part-time during my studies which was very flexible and allowed me to earn while still focusing on my studies. This role helped me develop time management skills and an understanding of logistics, which came in handy when managing my business. I would recommend having a part time job whilst studying- especially in a field that is of interest to you.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
My advice would be to take full advantage of the networking opportunities and internships available through the program. The practical skills gained through hands-on learning and placements are just as important as the theoretical knowledge. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to lecturers and peers for support when needed—QMU offers a great support system that really helps students succeed. I regret not taking part in a placement.
Did you use any of our university services to support you through your journey? How did they help you?
I made good use of the career services at QMU, which helped me refine my CV, prepare for interviews, and navigate job opportunities after graduation. The services were a great resource, particularly in my final year when I was looking for a full-time role.
Did you attend an online or in person Open Day day before coming to QMU?
Yes, I attended the in-person Open Day before applying, and it gave me a great sense of the campus culture and the supportive environment at QMU. The sessions on the Business Management course were very informative and helped me make my decision to choose QMU.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
"My top tip would be to get involved in as many extracurricular activities as you can. Whether it’s joining a society, participating in student events, or even attending guest lectures, these opportunities help you build relationships and expand your learning beyond the classroom."
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university?
The most valuable lesson I learned at university was the importance of adaptability. In business, things are constantly changing, and being able to adapt quickly to new situations is crucial. My time at QMU taught me how to approach problems from multiple perspectives and find creative solutions.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
Since graduating, I’ve been working as a Branch Manager at Hertz, where I oversee a team and manage operations at one of the company’s key locations. My role involves driving customer service excellence, managing fleet resources, planning for growth, and ensuring compliance with company standards.
"I was recently promoted to the position of UK European Works Council Representative, a role that allows me to contribute to strategic decision-making at a broader level and represent the interests of Hertz employees across Europe. I’m proud of this achievement, and it’s been rewarding to see how my leadership abilities have grown. "
Before joining Hertz, I participated in the Enterprise Graduate Management Trainee Program, where I gained valuable skills across multiple areas, including sales, operations, and financial management. My time in this program allowed me to be promoted twice and helped me build a strong foundation in business management.
Additionally, while still studying at QMU, I started my own landscaping business, KGS, which has grown to over 200 customers across Central Scotland and Edinburgh. This entrepreneurial venture helped me apply the business knowledge I was gaining in real-time and strengthened my passion for business development.
I was also actively involved in the QMU Football Team, where I had the duty of serving as vice-captain. This experience helped me develop leadership and team-building skills that I continue to use in my professional life.
Anything else you’d like to share about life at QMU or as a graduate?
Life at QMU was an enriching experience, both academically and personally. The University provided a great environment for growth and development, and I always felt supported by both faculty and staff. As a graduate, I’m proud to have been part of a university that truly prepares its students for the challenges of the business world.
