From the slopes to the boardroom: How the UBC MBAN prepared this alum for AI leadership

Krutika Ramwani has always held a deep interest in data analytics. With a background in finance and accounting, she began her career in audit analytics in Dubai—but eventually realized she wanted more. To strengthen her technical skills and pursue aspirations for a career in AI consulting, Krutika joined the UBC Master of Business Analytics (MBAN) at the Robert H. Lee Graduate School, UBC Sauder School of Business. Today, as a Manager of Cloud, Data and AI at PwC, she leads projects spanning AI strategy, governance and data. Krutika reflects on how UBC Sauder empowered both her career pivot and personal development.  

Where are you from, and where are you currently based? 

I was born and raised in Dubai, UAE. Today, I’m based in Vancouver, Canada. 
 

What are you passionate about—personally or professionally? 

I used to be a quintessential Dubai kid, enjoying in-person shopping, late-night drives, and exploring new restaurants. Moving to Vancouver has transformed me into more of an outdoors enthusiast. I’ve fallen in love with running, hiking, kayaking, and even skiing during the winter months. Beyond the trails and slopes, I’ve always had a deep passion for Bollywood dancing—something I’ve loved and pursued since childhood.

Can you walk us through your career journey since graduating from UBC Sauder? 

Since moving to Canada for my Master of Business Analytics (MBAN), my career was driven by a clear goal: to work in AI consulting. With that ambition in mind, I began applying to consulting roles as soon as I entered the program. Within the first few months, I was fortunate to receive a full-time offer from Deloitte, as a Senior Consultant in their AI & Data team.

To complement my academic learning with hands-on experience, I requested an internship ahead of my start date, which Deloitte graciously accommodated. I began interning in June 2023 and transitioned into my full-time role in August. Over the next year, I worked with clients, primarily in the financial services sector, on AI strategy, use case development and integrating emerging technologies like Generative AI.

After a year at Deloitte, I joined PwC as a Manager in their Cloud, Data, and AI practice. This role aligned perfectly with my career aspirations, allowing me to lead engagements in AI strategy, data governance, and AI governance across sectors like financial services, retail, and the public sector. I'm particularly passionate about growing PwC’s AI and data presence in British Columbia. 
 

Why did you choose UBC Sauder and your specific program? 

I wanted a program that combined business acumen with technical skills and prepared me for client-facing, strategy-focused roles in analytics. My background in accounting and finance, particularly in audit analytics in Dubai, where I used data and coding to enhance audit efficiency and insights, sparked a deep interest in analytics. But I knew I didn’t want to continue in a purely technical or back-end role.

UBC Sauder’s globally-recognized MBAN program stood out as the perfect fit. Its curriculum struck the right balance between technical training and real-world business application, offering courses in Python, R and NoSQL, as well as optimization, marketing analytics, and financial decision-making.

Location was another draw. As someone who thrives in warm, vibrant environments, the West Coast lifestyle and natural beauty of Vancouver were an undeniable bonus.

Choosing UBC Sauder was one of the best decisions I’ve made, both for my career and personal growth.

How did your experience at UBC Sauder shape your career path or contribute to your growth? 

UBC Sauder has shaped both my career trajectory and personal development in three significant ways: through its strong alumni network, its rigorous and industry-relevant curriculum, and its guidance in navigating the Canadian professional landscape.

The community at UBC Sauder, including supportive staff like Joyce Wong, played a huge role in my journey. Even after graduating, I'm still connected through events, mentorship opportunities and alumni outreach. One of the most comforting aspects of being a UBC Sauder alum is knowing that I can reach out to a fellow graduate and receive genuine guidance—simply because we share this common connection.

Academically, the MBAN program gave me the technical fluency to speak confidently about AI, data tools and analytics strategy in client settings. The coursework helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. I still refer to the notes from Adjunct Professor Mark Chen’s marketing class and Professor Steven Schechter’s optimization course when solving business problems.

Equally transformative was learning how to navigate the Canadian work culture. UBC Sauder introduced me to the concept of “coffee chats”, a networking tool that was new to me, but became instrumental in landing my role at PwC.

UBC Sauder laid the foundation for how I grow, connect, and lead in the professional world.  
 

Is there a standout memory or moment from your time at UBC Sauder that you often reflect on? 

As someone who thrives on community and connection, one of my most meaningful experiences was serving as the Vice President of Events for the MBAN student government.

From delivering my campaign speech in front of my classmates and the Hari B. Varshney Business Career Centre staff, to organizing key events like the MBAN Gala, I truly enjoyed every moment. This role was more than just event planning. It was about bringing people together and creating shared memories that defined our cohort experience.

Being part of the student body also allowed me to collaborate beyond the MBAN program. I worked closely with student leaders from the Master of Business Administration and Master of Management cohorts. These cross-program interactions helped me form lasting relationships, while offering a broader perspective on leadership and student engagement.

The experience also taught me valuable decision-making skills, from managing budgets to ensuring inclusivity in our events. It remains my favourite and most formative memory from my MBAN journey.
 

What advice would you give to someone considering a business education at UBC Sauder? 

Be fully engaged and present—not just in the classroom, but throughout the entire experience. While academic learning is critical and will help shape your career path, what truly sets your time at UBC Sauder apart is everything that happens beyond the lectures and assignments.

Get involved in student organizations, attend events, volunteer and connect with people outside your program. Most importantly, step outside your comfort zone. University is a rare environment where it’s safe to push your boundaries and try things that challenge you. So, give that speech that makes your hands shake, join that sports team you think you’re not good enough for, strike up a conversation with someone new, and apply for your dream job.

UBC Sauder is more than a business school; it’s a launchpad. The more open you are to its full spectrum of experiences, the more confident, capable, and connected you’ll become.

UBC Sauder gave me more than just a degree. It gave me lifelong friendships, the confidence to lead and the foundation to build a purpose-driven career in data and AI.