Alumni Stories
Read inspiring stories from fellow alumni and share your own experiences.
‘’CIIM (now UoL) as very successful in fostering a new generation of outstanding executives and business leaders.
CIIM had a catalytic positive effect on my professional career. It taught me how to look at things from a different perspective and go beyond my comfort zone. CIIM unified all my knowledge, competencies, and experience under one umbrella. Everything made sense.
The institution has given me not only knowledge but above all some values which are indispensable. It has given me a willingness to learn, acceptance of responsibility, a sense of morality and integrity, courage to try new ideas, and, yes, willingness to dedicate myself to the service of others.
CIIM/UoL urged me to listen to the winds of change, always strive for Excellence, never give up, think out of the box, innovate, and pursue lifelong learning. And I have! I owe who I am to CIIM and I am grateful.’’
Mr Michalis PapadopoulosCEO Aretaeio Hospital CyprusMBA, Class of 1998
‘’Working for the public sector since 1990 in policy making, strategic planning and coordinating the implementation of public investments. Served as Head for the implementation of EU’s Cohesion Policy in Cyprus and in 10 years, since completion of a Master’s degree in Public Sector Management in 2013 and an MBA in 2021 at CIIM, served in three different Ministries. Head of Office of the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment (2013-2017), Head of Policy and European Affairs Directorate of the Ministry of Interior (2017-2021) and appointed retroactively (as of 2011) Director of Coordination, DG Growth, Ministry of Finance. Represented Cyprus in various EU Committees and Conferences and appointed by the Council of Ministers to serve at the boards of various Public Organizations.
Mrs Anthoulla Charalambous SavvidesDirector for Recovery and Resilience, DG Growth, Ministry of FinanceMaster in Public Sector Management (Class of 2010) and MBA (Class of 2020)
‘’My educational journey has proven to be profoundly transformative, imparting me with a profound understanding of the intricacies within the maritime industry. Beyond the academic and professional realms, my student experience has been a crucible for personal growth, nurturing a steadfast sense of adaptability, advanced problem-solving skills, and an unwavering commitment to effective leadership. With over 15 years of experience in the cruise industry and various types of vessels, I have honed my expertise and found inspiration within the University’s supportive milieu, which encouraged me to set and pursue ambitious aspirations. CIIM (now UoL) undeniably forms the bedrock of my career, and I wholeheartedly encourage prospective candidates to explore the transformative opportunities it provides for those aspiring to make a lasting impact in their chosen professional domains. ‘’
Mr Carlos Miguel Caballero MirallesChief Officer: Safety, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings LTDMSc in Shipping and Operations Management, Class of 2021
‘’I am the entrepreneur behind Cyprus Insurance News, the pioneering news portal dedicated to the insurance industry in Cyprus. Additionally, I am the founder of Insurance Media Lab, a digital agency that caters exclusively to the insurance sector's needs.
My studies at CIIM (now UoL) have been instrumental in my professional development, endowing me with a wealth of knowledge and critical insights into the multifaceted aspects of modern business.
This foundation has not only fuelled my entrepreneurial spirit but has also been pivotal in addressing the nuanced challenges of the digital landscape within the insurance industry.’’
Mr Panayiotis SofocleousFounder of Cyprus Insurance News, MSc in Business Management, Class of 2019MSc in Business Management, Class of 2019
‘’My professional growth is highly related with my studies at CIIM (now UoL) few years ago. I have completed the MSc Financial services through which I had the opportunity to meet exceptional professionals and participate in the CFA research challenge, which was a career turning point. CIIM (now UoL) provides the flexibility to professionals to expand their knowledge in non-working hours while at the same time it provides them with all necessary tools for networking and to build the required mindset for a successful career.’’My studies at CIIM (now UoL) have been instrumental in my professional development, endowing me with a wealth of knowledge and critical insights into the multifaceted aspects of modern business.
This foundation has not only fuelled my entrepreneurial spirit but has also been pivotal in addressing the nuanced challenges of the digital landscape within the insurance industry.’’
Mr Charalambos ChristouExecutive Director and the Head of Risk Management department, MFO Asset Management LtdMSc in Financial Services, Class of 2016
‘’Margarita has 20 years of working experience in the audit and public accounting within manufacturing and production industry. She has a long career in Coca-Cola HBC system. During her career, she has held several finance positions in Russian & Cyprus Operations of the CCH group. Now she is appointed as a Financial Accounting Manager region 3.
Thanks to CIIM (now UoL) family for the journey I had with MBA program. I feel proud of being part of this winning team during my career in Cyprus. The program helped me to build a strong business connection with high levels of engagement and passion for excellence. I am sure and looking forward to observing new achievements of UoL (progression of CIIM), developing MBA program and academic part of University of Limassol to new heights in Mediterranean area and, why not, rest of the world.’’
My studies at CIIM (now UoL) have been instrumental in my professional development, endowing me with a wealth of knowledge and critical insights into the multifaceted aspects of modern business.
This foundation has not only fuelled my entrepreneurial spirit but has also been pivotal in addressing the nuanced challenges of the digital landscape within the insurance industry.’’
Mrs Margarita ElisovaFinancial Accounting Manager region 3 Coca-Cola HBCMBA, Class of 2017
‘’I have been working in the financial sector for over 25 years and have acquired a number of degrees over the years, yet studying for the MBA qualification at CIIM has broadly encouraged a wider perspective of thinking in me and has enabled me to advance my career like no other. My decision to study for an MBA at CIIM was based on my desire to acquire an extra qualification from a well-known and recognized institution, enhance my knowledge in the business management space as well as broadening my skillset.
The high quality curriculum was both relevant and creative, delivered by high - caliber lecturers coming from the best Universities in the world. The course is structured and organised in such a way as to provide both specialised knowledge, soft - skills and a can-do attitude, that have assisted me in achieving better results and building more effective professional relationships.
This opportunity has helped me to advance my professional career by gaining the knowledge and skills that are crucial in tackling my daily professional and personal life. ‘’
Mrs Stella MichaelidouCommissioner of State Aid Control of Cyprus MBA, Class of 2016
7. Stavros Florides
‘’ The program was very comprehensive and really moved in a speedy pace whilst the faculty have done an excellent job satisfying all our needs. I must highlight that I was surrounded by exceptional professors who guided and provided me with the best study materials and very often topics were taught by visitor professionals with high academic or business credentials.
Except from my degree and the knowledge acquired, I have also earned a wider perspective, boosted confidence in my abilities and an unparallel learning experience that last a lifetime and are part of my career.
Thank you CIIM / UοL !!!’’
Mr Stavros Florides General Manager at AIG Europe S.A. (Cyprus Branch) Master’s in business management, Class of 2017