RU Student Life is bringing you a look at past Ryerson grads in an effort to foster connections between students and Alumni. Take a read and learn about your possible future career. Don’t miss your opportunity to network with Ryerson Alumni at the Alumni Expo in March!
Our first interview is with Bradley Deokie.
What did you study at Ryerson?
 I graduated with my B Comm degree in Global Management at the Ted Rogers School of Management.
What made you choose that program? Was it related to the career you envisioned?
I chose the program because during first year students get to take courses in almost all aspects of business. I knew that I wanted to be in business but I didn’t know what area I would enjoy the most. The program allowed me to take a look at all different aspects of business before deciding.
Were you involved in any clubs or societies as a student? Do you think they provided benefits for students?
As a student I was heavily involved in DECA Ryerson, and during my forth year I was President of the organization. Today’s graduates will face intense competition for employment. Being involved and showing that you can take initiative as well as showing leadership is what will set you apart and help you stand out from the crowd.
What did you do immediately after graduation?
I started working full time as a Supply Chain Analyst at Canadian Tire right after graduation. A job that I managed to gain before even graduating.
Describe Ryerson in three words
Community. Opportunity. Innovative
About  your career:
What is you job title?
Supply Chain Analyst, Dyson Canada
Highlight some of your past work experience
–         Supply Chain Analyst – Dyson Canada (current role)
–         Supply Chain Analyst – Canadian Tire
–         Team Lead – Student Information and Advising Centre, Ryerson University
What personal qualities or abilities are important to being successful in our current role?
To be successful in my current role, I think the key personal qualities/abilities are being a critical thinker (very analytical), being a strong team player as well as a leader. In addition, being willing to take initiative
How do you see jobs in this field changing in the future?
I see jobs in the Supply Chain field becoming more and more technical. Students graduating looking for work within this field will need to have a good understanding / ability to work with different types of software. Or, at least be able to show that they can learn quickly while on the job.
What special advice would you give a student entering this field?
Go into the job with a can-do attitude and know that every challenge is a learning opportunity at a barrier
Reflection Questions:
What is the most important thing you took away from your experience at Ryerson?
The important thing I took away from my experience at Ryerson was to think strategically and see the bigger picture when faced with tasks and projects at work. Seeing the bigger picture will help guide you through the day-to-day work.
Is there anything you wish they’d taught you at Ryerson?
Going into an analytical role right after Ryerson, I wish that they focused a bit more on Microsoft Excel and understanding how to manipulate and make sense out of big sets of data. This is a critical part of any analyst’s job. It’s usually something you pick up as you go along, but having it as part of the course would make students more career ready.
How do you stay motivated?
I always look at the big picture. I know where I want to be in future and I understand that this is what I need to do to get there. I always keep in mind that sometimes you have to do what you have to do, in order to get to do what you want to do.
What, in your opinion, are the keys to success?
Staying focused on your goals, and making sure that you understand what you truly want in life.
Do you have any final advice for students?
“Never let a good crisis go to waste.” Don’t let challenging situations and tasks pass by you; learn from them. Take advantage of every opportunity.
This Alumni Spotlight has been brought to you in partnership with Alumni Relations for the Alumni Expo 2014:
To learn about the road to graduation & the benefits of becoming an engaged alumnus RSVP to the 2014 Alumni Expo roadshow on passport. https://passport.ryerson.ca/organization/alumnirelations/events
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Contact Sid Naidu – Alumni Relations Office (snaidu@ryerson.ca) if you are interested in getting involved.
