Diya is a MSc Business Analytics graduate from Queen Mary University London. She secured an Operations Analyst role at Rothesay in London. 
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“I've always been someone who enjoys solving problems and understanding how things work behind the scenes, which led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
As I progressed, I became increasingly drawn to data-driven decision-making and using analytics to solve real-world business problems. That interest led me to pursue a Master's in Business Analytics, which allowed me to build my technical skills while also gaining exposure to the strategic and operational sides of businesses.
This blend of engineering and analytics reflects who I am—someone who enjoys digging into details, connecting dots, and continuously learning. What motivates me in my current role and career path is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through data, improve processes, and work in environments where problem-solving and innovation are valued.”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“The opportunity to work in a role where I could contribute to process improvements and decision-making through analytics was exactly what I was looking for.
The Operations Analyst position stood out to me because of its mix of analytical responsibilities and its impact on the day-to-day functioning of the business, offering the chance to work closely with systems, processes, and cross-functional teams.
What also stood out about Rothesay was the clarity and impact of its mission. I first came across the company during a career fair, and after learning more about the work they do, it felt like a place where I could genuinely grow and make a difference. The structured yet thoughtful interview process further reinforced my impression of a company that values its people and takes a considered approach to hiring.”
What was the application process like?
“I found the whole application process to be seamless and well-structured. I applied for a graduate position as an Operations Analyst. The selection process involved five in-person interviews, including conversations with various team members that focused both on cultural fit and getting to know me better.
The interviews were quite interactive—not only did they give me a clearer understanding of the role, but they also helped me see how my skills and interests aligned with what the team was looking for.
What stood out was how considerate the process felt, with interviewers placing real emphasis on understanding me as a person. Communication was clear and timely at every stage, which made the whole experience feel positive and reassuring.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“I think the first step is to understand where your strengths lie and identify areas where you can actively build and develop your skills.
For a role like Operations Analyst, being comfortable working with large datasets and understanding how to build and interpret models are valuable skills to focus on. Beyond the technical side, developing a mindset geared toward problem-solving and continuous improvement can make a big difference. These soft skills are often just as important and can really help you stand out.
It’s also important to take the time to understand the role you’re applying for and the industry it operates in. This gives you a better sense of where you can add value and helps you align with what the company is looking for.”
What have you learnt from going through the process?
“What surprised me was that most of the process was in-person, which showed how much the company values team fit. It was great to meet different members of the team.
The number of rounds was similar to other processes, but the timeline was actually shorter. The team was very prompt in their responses and provided clear information on the next steps.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m really looking forward to continuing to grow in my current role and building a deeper understanding of how different parts of the business come together. What excites me most is the opportunity to take on more complex challenges—whether it’s improving operational efficiency, working on cross-functional initiatives, or diving deeper into data to drive better decision-making.
I’m particularly interested in expanding my skills in areas like operations automation and leveraging technology to increase efficiency. For me, learning comes from a mix of hands-on experience, learning from others on the team, and staying curious enough to keep asking questions. I hope to continue developing by taking on new responsibilities, staying open to feedback, and pushing myself outside my comfort zone when opportunities arise.”
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