Bodour Alzaim

What did your academic and professional life look like before IE Business School?

Before IE Business School, I studied management and started my career in marketing. I soon realized my passion for working with people, leading me to transition into human resources to focus on people analytics and management.

Why did you choose to join the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources at IE Business School?

I chose IE Business School's Master in Talent Development & Human Resources because of its unique and comprehensive approach to HR. My brother, Abdullah Alzaim, graduated from the Master in Management program ten years ago and has since thrived in his career, inspiring me to pursue this enriching journey at IE Business School.

Which elements of the program have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

So far, I've really enjoyed the program's diversity, with students from various nationalities, backgrounds and personalities enriching our networking experience. In addition, working on multiple projects has been exciting, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Last but not least, being taught by industry-leading experts has provided me with invaluable insights and skills to thrive in the field.

What skills do you think you need for a successful career in human resources and talent development?

For a successful career in HR and talent development, strong technological skills will be key to success, as well as the ability to adapt to new trends and tools. Also, emotional intelligence and well-being leadership are essential for connecting with people and promoting their wellness. Lastly, change management skills are crucial for navigating organizational transitions smoothly.

If you could advise anybody considering following in your footsteps and taking the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources, what would you say?

In a nutshell, I would say that IE Business School does not disappoint in allowing you to discover the next best you.

Coming into this program, I had high expectations of such a prestigious institute. However, those expectations were confined to academic or professional aspects. To my surprise, this experience has holistically developed my interpersonal, academic, professional and social skills in various ways, which has been of great value.

How do you plan to leverage your diverse skills in HR, marketing and leadership with your learnings from the program to build healthy workplaces?

Thanks to IE Business School, we were able to take multiple courses that integrate my passion, skills and experience into the field of HR. For example, I can see how my marketing experience can be applied to employer branding and people analytics. I will be sure to take these valuable learnings into my future role and focus my efforts on people sustainability and developing practices for a healthier workplace. 

You’re now about halfway through the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources. How has it compared to, or exceeded, the expectations you had beforehand?

Approaching the end of this program, I am beyond grateful for every person who has been part of my journey of change and growth. While the academic year is coming to an end soon, the friendships and connections I’ve made will only get stronger.