Our alum Saad Jamil: Start networking early – opportunities may come from unexpected places

Leading transformation in a fast-growing environment 

Saad Jamil currently leads financial transformation initiatives within a fast-growing international technology company. His work spans new systems and process implementation, PMO training, and AI adoption.

“What motivates me is the scale of impact—our work doesn’t just affect the company, but also customers, cities, and how services are delivered in everyday life,” Saad says.

Saad enjoys working in dynamic environments and values the responsibility and ownership that come with them. One of the motivations for him comes from promoting diversity and sustainability. In his current position, this covers aspects such as electric vehicles and material choices.

Challenges, on the other hand, come from the company’s rapid growth.

“We want to keep an agile mindset while also managing the complexity that comes with growth. Finding the right balance is key,” Saad explains.

Master studies in Finland were a positive experience

Saad completed his master’s degree in business and technology at Tampere University in 2014. When applying from his native country, Pakistan, Saad knew a little bit about Finland through his previous work position.

“I have to admit that coming to Finland was still a cultural shock at first, also academically. In Pakistan, the focus was getting good grades, while in Finland, what you learn in key. It was easy to approach the professors and teachers at Tampere University, and they were very eager to help and guide you. Overall, it was a very positive experience,” Saad says.

Beyond academics, adapting to Finnish culture also shaped his perspective.

I learned to appreciate a culture built on trust, responsibility, and direct communication. Over time, this influenced how I work and lead —focusing on clarity, accountability, and creating an environment where people feel empowered.”

Saad Jamil

“I learned to appreciate a culture built on trust, responsibility, and direct communication. Over time, this influenced how I work and lead —focusing on clarity, accountability, and creating an environment where people feel empowered.”

After graduating, breaking into the job market was not easy and required persistence. Looking back, he feels that the phase taught him resilience and the importance of continuously building skills and networks.

Start networking early

Saad has a few words of advice to share with students stepping into working life. Firstly, you should talk openly about what you want to do and what your dream position would be. Secondly, and relatedly, feel free to ask about new opportunities from the people around you.

“Open talk and asking others about opportunities have helped me along the way. That’s also how I got my first work position in Finland. Don’t be afraid to ask; the worst thing that could happen is hearing a ‘no’. Also, you should not stop at the first rejection,” Saad encourages.

Another piece of advice is starting to network early. Opportunity may find you when you least expect it.

“I only realised afterwards that you should start networking early, during your studies. Your future colleagues or employers may be sitting in the same classroom with you.”

Text: Tiina Leivo