Alumni

Ahmed Bahgat

Career Path: Projects Commercial Manager (Region Europe, Middle East & Africa Division Systems), Bombardier Transportation
Location: Dubai, UAE

I am a Chartered Construction Manager and a certified Contracts & Commercial Practitioner which has helped me to take leading roles in prestigious built environment and transportation projects. I am seasoned in the areas of contract formation, administration, claims preparation and management as well as commercial strategic management. I am also a Chartered Member of CIOB and CIArb as well as being certified by the IACCM. This has allowed me to advise and attain contracts and commercial excellence with the objective of adding more value to my employers.

What are you doing now?

I am managing the commercial and contractual aspects on two automated rail-work systems in the Middle East region in addition to advising on future bids.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

The Quantity Surveying Masters' programme which I selected was accredited by RICS and I felt this is exactly what I needed to develop my competences in a career with that I very much enjoy. Another aspect was the ability of the University to embrace people from various backgrounds and cultures in a very harmonic way. Equally, the University offered a flexible learning experience, either on campus or through distance learning.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

The first thing that comes to my mind is that it was challenging and rewarding to those who put time and effort in their studies. The programme was very well structured and managed. Equally, it was diversified in such an interesting way for those who have passion for the industry. We were taught many topics such as methods of measurements, construction technology, contracts, law and project management. This meant that, with the right level of dedication, as students we enjoyed a highly bespoke experience and, further, a chance to advance our careers effectively.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

They were all very knowledgeable in their respective fields and specialities, with the majority of them having practical experience. This important feature put the quality of education on another level, one where text books and real life examples merge.

How connected was your course with industry?

I have always had a firm belief that the industry could not flourish, and to some extent survive, during challenging times in absence of strong commercial and value management. This is why it is not rare to hear about companies of all sort of scale failing in today’s tough market dynamics. The Quantity Surveying course was very much related to the construction industry and it certainly equipped me with the knowledge of how to do things the right way. In other words, how to keep your projects profitable. With time, I have understood that some aspects of the course like contracts and commercial management is a set of skills that could be applied in different industries.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

It put me on the right path and gave me access to a wide range of opportunities. Northumbria gave me the thrust which I needed to approach the hiring market efficiently and with confidence. That was my first step and I understood that I should build on it and continue my personal development.

What was the best thing about your course?

The Law module, despite it being a small and short module it helped me in my career and still does.

Which skills/ knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Contract administration and commercial reporting. It is simply my day-to-day job and I am glad that I learnt it the right way.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The fast-paced knowledge which the course was designed to deliver. Also, the group project management assignment; that was certainly a wonderful experience from the time we created the group charter until delivering the assignment.