Oliver Dean
- Year of graduation: 2024
- Current job title: Project Assistant
- Current employer: DSV – Global Transport and Logistics
- Industry sector: Logistics
Meet Oliver Dean, a Business Studies graduate whose proactive approach and industry experience have set the foundation for a thriving career in logistics. After completing his BA (Hons) Business Studies with a Year in Industry at the University of Northampton, Oliver secured a role as a Project Assistant at DSV – Global Transport and Logistics. By making the most of mentoring opportunities, industry placements, and university support, he developed the skills, confidence, and commercial awareness needed to succeed in a fast-paced, global business environment.
What are some of your favorite memories from your time at the University of Northampton?
Some of my favorite memories from my time at the University of Northampton come from the support I received from the tutors. They were always approachable, genuinely invested in my progress and willing to go the extra mile to help me succeed. Another highlight was the variety of business events the University hosted, these gave me valuable exposure to industry speakers such as Nick Hewer, networking opportunities, and real-world insights that helped connect what we were learning in class to actual business practice.
Can you tell us about your current role and what a typical day looks like?
I’m a Project Assistant at DSV supporting the planning, coordination and delivery of logistics projects within Contract Logistics. My day-to-day responsibilities include analysing operational data, preparing key project reports and contributing to continuous improvements initiatives on site. I work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure project milestones are achieved and that the solutions we deliver meet customer requirements.
I’m also part of a 12-month rotational development program which is giving me exposure to different aeras of the business including Operations, Commercial and Business Change Management. This experience is helping me build a broad skill set and develop the capabilities I need to support my long-term career ambitions within Contract Logistics.
What experiences or opportunities helped shape your career after graduating from the University of Northampton?
Two experiences had a particularly strong influence on shaping my career after graduating. The first was making full use of the Chartered Management institute membership included with my course. Through this, I had access to regular 1:1 mentoring with a senior leader in the banking industry. That’s support was invaluable in helping me prepare for interviews and assessment centres, but also navigate the early stages of my career during my final year.
The second major influence was my placement year. This gave me exposure to real-world decision making, day to day business challenges and how organisations interact with their customers. It also broadened my understanding of the wide range of career paths available and helped me clarify areas I wanted to pursue.
How did the University support your career development while you were a student?
The university provided excellent career support through CV reviews, interview preparation and access to employers via career fairs and networking events. My tutors were also great at offering guidance and helping me understand what roles might suit my strengths.
What motivated you to get involved in mentoring students through the Student Futures programme?
I wanted to give something back. I benefited greatly from having various mentors along my journey and continue to do, so passing on my learnings from my journey felt like a natural way to support others in the same position. I know how overwhelming career decisions can feel, especially towards the end of your degree, so if my experience can help someone gain clarity or confidence then it’s worth it. It’s also incredibly rewarding seeing students grow and achieve their goals.
What advice would you give to students who want to pursue a similar career path?
My biggest piece of advice is to stay open to new opportunities and embrace the moments that push you outside your comfort zone – because that’s where the most meaningful growth happens. Looking back my 12-month placement between my second and final year was one of the best decisions I made, it gave me a safe space to experiment, fail, learn and discover what energized, what didn’t and where my strengths lay.
I’d also encourage you to embrace the rapid changes happening across every industry – especially in data and AI. You don’t need to be a technical expert to get involved, curiosity is the only thing you need. Now for example, I am exploring how agentic AI can streamline everyday tasks as the possibilities are genuinely eye-opening. The more you experiment with these tools the clearer it becomes just how empowering they are and how they’re already changing the way the world works.
What are your ambitions for the next stage of your career?
Looking ahead I’m focused on deepening my expertise within the Contract Logistics business and building the foundations needed to move into a leadership role. I’m motivated by opportunities to take on greater responsibilities, guide teams and shape how we deliver value for customers.
I’m also eager to gain international experience as part of my career journey. Working in different markets and environments would broaden my perspective and strengthen my ability to lead effectively in a global, fast-moving industry. I see the combination of leadership development and international exposure as essential to my long-term growth.
Please be aware that the University of Northampton no longer offers Business Studies BA (Hons), but you can study Business Management BA (Hons) which offers an optional placement year and various pathways.