Curiosity, innovation, and collaboration were at the heart of the Oracle Student Analytics & AI Day, where UCL School of Management’s BSc Information Management for Business students spent the day at Oracle’s UK headquarters in Reading. Immersed in cutting-edge discussions and live technology demonstrations, students gained valuable insight into how data and AI are driving the next wave of digital transformation.
The day began with a warm welcome from Karolina Kimbar, Technology Cloud Engineering West, Strategic Programme Support, who encouraged students to be curious, bold, and proactive in exploring opportunities within enterprise technology. Her introduction set the tone for a day built around discovery, innovation, and connection. Special thanks also go to Sofia Pascual Armstrong, whose support helped make the visit possible.
Students then heard from David Cottee, Senior Director of Cloud Solution Engineering, who shared his career journey and reflections on Oracle’s evolution. His talk explored the central role of innovation in driving meaningful change and emphasised the importance of responsible AI adoption in business decision-making.
Next, Phoebe Foy-Phillips, Senior Director Alliances, spoke passionately about her own career progression and the value of partnerships, highlighting how Oracle builds long-term relationships that deliver impact and foster collaboration.
One of the day’s highlights was a live demonstration of Oracle Analytics Cloud, led by Laura Pana, EMEA Analytics Product Strategy Lead. It showcased how automation, predictive insights, and data storytelling can empower decision-makers. The session brought classroom learning to life and helped students connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications.
“Learning about the pioneering innovation and background of Oracle really stood out to me,” said one student. “It made me realise how quickly AI and analytics are evolving and how exciting it is to be part of that journey.”
The visit also included a presentation from Oracle’s Early Careers team, led by Raluca Proca, HR Consultant, who outlined graduate and internship pathways and introduced current and former interns. Their personal experiences and practical advice helped demystify routes into the tech industry. “The networking and insight from senior professionals were invaluable,” another student shared. “It was inspiring to hear how different people found their paths into Oracle.”
Students were treated to a tour of Oracle’s Industry Lab, where Stuart Cranston, Industry Lab Manager, and Andrew Pestana, Head of Global Innovation Labs, demonstrated cutting-edge applications of AI, from hospitality automation to immersive virtual environments and intelligent customer systems. The group also gained insight into Oracle’s collaborations with Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Technology, further illustrating how data and innovation drive performance across industries.
It was a privilege to see IMB students networking confidently, asking thoughtful questions, and engaging deeply with the world of enterprise technology. The visit exemplified the School of Management’s commitment to providing meaningful, experience-based learning that connects academic study with professional practice.
“How well planned out it was, the sessions were super engaging and fun!” commented one attendee, reflecting the enthusiasm shared across the cohort.
Maya Cara, IMB Programme Director, said:
“The Oracle Student Analytics and AI Day offered an incredible opportunity for students to see how data, analytics and AI are transforming the world of work. Our students loved hearing from Oracle’s amazing team, from innovation and responsible AI to real-world analytics demos and early career insights. It was a masterclass in how technology shapes the future of industry.”
Thank You, Oracle
The School of Management extends sincere thanks to Karolina Kimbar, David Cottee, Phoebe Foy-Phillips, Laura Pana, Raluca Proca, Stuart Cranston, and Andrew Pestana for their generosity, expertise, and enthusiasm in hosting the visit. This event marked another successful collaboration between UCL and Oracle, one that left students inspired, informed, and eager to explore future careers at the intersection of technology, data, and innovation.
Find out more about UCL School of Management’s BSc Information Management for Business programme.