Why this manager prefers to hire VU graduates

Studying at VU helped Business alumnus Oladokun Omibiyi reach his professional goals. Now in a managerial position, he explains why he preferences VU students and alumni when hiring.

“After completing an Advanced Diploma of Financial Services at another institute, I decided to gain my Business (Accounting) degree at VU. The Bachelor of Business is well-designed, and I was really interested in VU's Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program.

As a mature-age student, I had other responsibilities including raising a young family and working so I had to stay focused to keep on top of my workload. VU has a flexible timetable so I chose mainly evening classes.

The cultural diversity at VU offers huge benefits – I had classmates from Bangladesh, India, Australia and Africa to name a few. It’s a welcoming and accepting institution where everyone is comfortable to speak up and share their contributions.

My WIL placement was with VU’s industry partner Crown Resorts, in a finance administration role.

Gaining this practical experience in such a large and successful organisation was the perfect way to apply what I learned in class to real-life situations.

My next employer, ParkRoyal Melbourne Airport, was particularly impressed with my expertise. With the field knowledge I gained at Crown, I brought exciting ideas into this new workplace. In the first six months I innovated and simplified processes – which presented great opportunities to move up the ladder. I’m managing a team of five and find my role so rewarding.

Knowing the success VU’s WIL program has given me, I will always consider VU students and graduates first. The experience they get from their WIL is the best preparation for the workforce.”

Bachelor of Business (Accounting)