Alan Peters – Made in Coventry

Building transferable skills that open unexpected career paths

For Alan Peters, studying an MBA in Logistics was never just about one career path, it was about building the skills to move, adapt and grow in a changing world.

After graduating with Distinction in 2018 through Coventry University’s partnership with the Institute of Accountancy Arusha, Alan has gone on to build a career that blends strategy, creativity and global collaboration.

Today, he works independently across creative direction, brand oversight and campaign development, supporting organisations in hospitality, tourism, education and lifestyle sectors.

His journey shows how the skills developed at university can take you further than you might expect, even into entirely new industries.

Alan at his Graduation ceremony, 2018

Developing skills that go beyond your degree

While his MBA focused on logistics, the skills Alan developed were far broader.

Through his studies, he strengthened his ability to manage projects, think strategically and communicate ideas clearly, all of which now underpin his work in the creative industry.

“The skills I developed during my MBA, from project management to research and strategic thinking, have shaped the work I do today.”

These foundations helped him move into roles where he leads projects, works with global teams and makes confident decisions, using the kind of adaptable, practical skills that stay with you long after you graduate.

Applying business thinking to creative industries

Rather than following a traditional logistics career path, Alan used his skills to carve out a role in creative direction.

His work now focuses on helping brands move from idea to final output, guiding teams, shaping campaigns and ensuring consistency across every stage of delivery.

This includes working on brand development, campaign launches, rebrands, photography and film direction, and editorial content.

Alan’s approach combines business understanding with creative insight, something he directly connects back to his time at Coventry University.

“Coventry University gave me the business, research and strategic foundation. My creative career gave me the visual judgement and delivery experience. Today, I bring those two sides together.”

Working across industries and global markets

Since graduating, Alan has built a diverse portfolio of projects across multiple sectors.

His work includes supporting brands such as Nomad Tanzania, Rivertrees Country Inn and Planet Lodges, as well as contributing to projects in education and tourism.

He has collaborated with agencies, designers, photographers and marketing teams across the UK, East Africa, the USA, Australia and the UAE, bringing a global perspective to his work.

A key strength has been Alan’s ability to balance international standards with local understanding.

“As someone based in Tanzania, I can help brands tell stories that feel polished without losing connection to the culture, people and place behind them."

Alan Marketing and Brand Executive, Nomad Tanzania, 2024

Turning university skills into real-world impact

Alan’s career highlights how transferable skills can unlock opportunities beyond your original field of study.

The ability to think critically, manage complex projects and communicate effectively has allowed him to move confidently between industries, from logistics into creative direction and brand strategy.

These are the kinds of graduate attributes that continue to add value across roles, sectors and global markets.

Alan, Communications Coordinator at Rivertrees, 2022

Why transferable skills matter

In today’s working world, careers are rarely linear. The ability to adapt, learn and apply your skills in different contexts is more important than ever.

Alan’s journey shows that your degree is not just about what you study, it’s about the skills you take with you.

From strategic thinking to problem-solving and collaboration, these capabilities can open doors in ways you may not expect.

At Coventry University, it’s not just about what you study, it’s about the skills you take with you. You’ll build confidence in problem-solving, communication and working with others, so you can adapt, grow and shape your own path.

Alan Peters Brand Marketing Manager at Plant Lodge, 2023

Looking ahead

Now based in East Africa, Alan continues to work with organisations around the world, supporting creative projects through direction, oversight and delivery.

His story reflects what many students are looking for when choosing a postgraduate course: the chance to build skills that last, grow in confidence and create opportunities beyond a single career path.

For future students, Alan’s journey offers a clear message: the skills you develop at Coventry University can stay with you long after you graduate, helping you grow and build a career that works for you.