Guest speakers this year included former lord mayor of London, Sir Andrew Parmley, Framestore CEO, Sir William Sargent, and explorer Levison Wood
MBA students get to network with global thought leaders at the London Symposium. It’s why they run the event, says Dr Sionade Robinson, associate dean for MBA programs at the school.It’s a chance for students to be exposed to thought leadership “across the sectors that drive London—finance, property, retail, creative industries, and sports.”
Now in its fifth year, Sionade says that Cass has both a wealth of industry connections and alumni who deliver lectures, networking opportunities, and longer-term career enhancement for students from every corner of Cass Business School.
The London Symposium this year hosted guest speakers Sir Andrew Parmley, the former lord mayor of London, Sir William Sargent, CEO of Oscar-winning special effects company Framestore, and Levison Wood, revered explorer.
“Because of our network, and our ability to curate thought leaders, we are able to give students a backstage pass to what’s happening in the boardrooms of organizations that have made London home,” Sionade explains.
She says that Sir William Sargent employed a Cass graduate a few years ago—this year that alum invited a team of students to Framestore for a backstage Q&A. They had to sign non-disclosure agreements before they went in, recalls Sionade, “but they looked as if they’d had their minds blown when they came out!”
Company visits come in the afternoon, after students have heard from guest speakers. There are also trips to cultural institutions all over London—including the British Museum, Royal Institute, and the National Gallery.
Cass Business School students get to mix with students from guest business schools as well—this year Sionade says teams of students from Amsterdam Business School, LUISS Business School, and Mannheim Business School were in attendance.
There is a real community aspect, she explains—summed up in no better way by the fifth anniversary ‘flash mob’ (below) that the school put on at the closing ceremony.
“International visitors really get sense of what London is like as a city,” says current full-time MBA student at , Margaret Schroeder.
The London Symposium immerses students in the dynamic work businesses are doing in the city to tackle technological change and adapt to a rapidly changing business environment.
Margaret—who runs her own consulting firm, working with arts and entertainment companies—highlights Sir William Sargent’s talk as the most compelling.
“It was relevant for me because I work in entertainment,” she says. “He spoke about how [Framestore] leverages its network and partnerships to manage a creative business in the 21st century, in an industry where there is increasing consolidation.”
The faster technology changes, the faster industry has to move. That is something students find easier to learn through direct interaction with the companies at the vanguard of this movement.
“It’s so much more practical to have people in a room present different views,” Margaret admits. “To be able to talk to them candidly when they are not presenting—that’s phenomenal, it’s not something you get in a classroom environment.”
Networking with these people is vital, she continues, if that’s what you wish to get from your MBA. The sets students up to get the most they can out of the London Symposium—it comes after seven months of intense classroom study, so students enter conversations with industry experts with an understanding of key business concepts and industry trends.
Will something come of the connections Margaret has made?
“For me, certainly, because there happened to be guests who were extremely relevant to my industry,” she says.
“The networking that you do, and the people that you meet, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge of an up-and-coming issue in a job interview, that’s the kind of stuff that’s going to make a difference when you graduate.”
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
professors
The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
