Fireside Chat with SAP VP & UBC Sauder Alumni

Michael Emerson, started his career developing applications for the investment banking division of Société Générale in Paris. After almost six years in banking, he moved to Vancouver to study. During this time, he had the opportunity to do an internship at SAP. In 2013, Michael focused on developing his own real estate costing solution, before returning to SAP at a newly opened Innovation Centre near Berlin, where he took on the position of Chief Project Expert in the Line of Business Finance. After three years in this role, he then joined the product & innovation board office as Chief Product Strategist and contributed to the formulation of SAP’s Intelligent Enterprise strategy. In early 2019, he joined the database and analytics organization with a focus on planning solution strategy but has recently expanded his role to cover platform strategy. Michael studied Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Edinburgh, and also holds an MBA from UBC, specializing in Finance and IT Management.

As Chief Operating Officer at Starton Therapeutics, Cidnee Vaykovich is responsible for the global operations of the company, including manufacturing and product development, corporate and business development, investor and public relations and human resources. She currently sits on the Board of Directors and serves as Secretary of the Board. Previously, Vaykovich was a Research Analyst in New Product Development at Aequus Pharmaceuticals and an Associate in seed and early stage private equity at Northview LifeSciences. She holds a Masters of Management from The University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Health Science and Biology from Western University.

Mike is an entrepreneur turned finance professional. After successfully launching a small business during the financial crisis, he decided to pursue his MBA with the UBC Sauder School of Business, and has since pivoted to a career in banking. Today, Mike leads a team of credit analysts, underwriting and structuring complex commercial loans.

Ravina is currently a Senior Procurement Advisor at BC Hydro. Prior to starting her UBC MBA in 2019, Ravina worked in the agriculture and utilities industries and has extensive experience in supply chain and operations. During her UBC MBA, Ravina also interned in BC Hydro's business improvement services unit, with a focus on supply chain management.

Amy is currently a Data Analyst Co-op at EA, focused on the long-range space on the FIFA franchise. Prior to her transition into the gaming industry, Amy also worked in a consulting and analyst capacity at organizations such as Aritzia and KPMG.