Meet OMBS graduate Fran Garrett-Levy!
After graduating in 2013, Fran moved to London and started her business career journey, thanks to a connection she’d made at OMBS. That introduction led to her first role, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Today, she’s the Operations Director at the Pensions Management Institute, a position that has taken her from starting as a Qualifications Administrator to leading key operations. “It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment — completely thrilling and a little terrifying,” she admits feeling when she received her latest promotion.
Climbing the Career Ladder
Fran describes her career as a series of opportunities, or as she puts it, “jumping from one lily pad to the next.” Starting as an administrator, she was soon recommended for the role of PA to the CEO, thanks to the skills she gained at OMBS. After four years, she became Executive Support Manager, taking on responsibilities across HR, Corporate Governance, and Executive Support. Her career progression is a testament to grasping every opportunity with both hands.
Career Highlights
While she may not rub shoulders with celebrities or jet off to exotic conferences, she tells us her proudest achievements are all about personal growth:
- Professional milestones achieved: Moving herself up the promotion ladder and proving what she’s capable of.
- Trust and responsibility: Being invited to confidential board meetings early in her career and contributing to strategic discussions.
- Personal pride: Coming from a background where academics weren’t always easy, she’s proud of the professional she’s become.
Why She Loves Her Role
Fran told us she thrives on the challenge and variety her role offers. She enjoys navigating complex business scenarios and being part of strategic conversations. “I’ve always found it humbling to be trusted with confidential information,” she says, adding that the trust she established early on in her career helped her build a strong reputation from day one.
Business Skills That Made a Difference
Studying at Oxford Media & Business School gave Fran both practical skills and professional confidence. Touch-typing and drafting professional emails and letters were skills she was proficient in, enabling her to quickly impress senior members of the organisation. She also understood the importance of professional business conduct from day one in role.
Ultimately, she says the course gave her confidence to step into roles and prove her value, which has led to her successful progression!
Graduate Advice For Early Business Careers
Her tips for current students or early graduates are simple but powerful –
- Enjoy every moment – Time flies at OMBS, so make the most of it.
- City life matters – London can be daunting at first, but it’s an incredible place once you find your footing.
- Courage over comfort – Put yourself out there, network, and take opportunities. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know!
Her final word? “OMBS is a fabulous place, and I’ll shout about it’s brilliance from the rooftops!”
Would you like to learn more about the Professional Business Diploma? Contact our Director of Admissions to learn more about our regular Open Days.