Graduate student profile

Benjamin Marshman, Chief Executive Officer, NSW Health Peak Purchasing Council

Degree

Masters of Marketing (Logistics Management)

Completed

2003

What was the catalyst for you returning to study?

"I previously completed an engineering related undergraduate degree. The return to study was driven by a desire to improve career prospects."

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome to study at Monash?

"Distance - commenced residential blocks traveling from Townsville for early units. Continued study while simultaneously coordinating transport for major military operations, with up to 28 days continuous work at 12 to 16 hours per day."

What were your personal goals when you set out?

"To transition form a military career by age 30 using the Monash Course completion as a catalyst for change."

What do you feel you have achieved from studying at Monash?

"Very much so - it has provided a strong development of academic based analytical and research skills in the logistics field. It has supported a significant career change, and has led to recognition of achievements from commercial organisations."

Why did you choose Monash as place of study?

"I researched many universities offering logistics courses in Australia. Monash was selected based on reputation of the institution, and the flexibility of residential study blocks."

How did you find the quality of teaching at Monash?

"Very good. The core staff, in particular, were of a high standard."

Do you draw on what you learnt in your studies? In which ways are your studies helpful to your current role?

"The improved understanding of core logistics concepts is used in everyday work, as is the improved level of analytical and research skills."

What does your current role involve?

"Facilitate supply chain and purchasing reform for NSW Health. This includes implementation of e-business systems, and coordination of aggregated contracting worth over $300M."

How did your Monash degree help with your career?

"Few applicants possess Masters level qualifications in logistics and supply chain. It (the degree) was the basis for a major career change."

One piece of advice for anyone considering Monash, or studying in general.

"Do not take the easy roads in study. Challenges will present themselves as obstacles to completing your studies - meet these head on and accept that there will be times when the pressures of study, home and personal life will feel too much. One of the most satisfying achievements was knowing that despite all the challenges, late nights and weekends spent working at studies, the course was completed on time."