Gaurav Aggarwal
Project and Client Manager, Luta Sustainability Solutions, Toronto, Canada
Master of Global Business with Distinction
His role enables him to leverage both his project management and people management skills, says Gaurav Aggarwal who is now a project and client manager for Luta Sustainability Solutions in Toronto, Canada.
“In this role, I help clients achieve their employee ESG (environmental, social and governance) education and engagement goals through our SaaS-based solutions. My role involves working closely with the IT team to tailor our platform to client needs, managing new product development and future iterations, identifying growth opportunities and expanding our client base.
“My work aligns with my personal belief in sustainability – until Elon Musk and others help us settle on Mars, this is the only planet we have, and we must take care of it for future generations. Knowing that my work contributes to a more sustainable future is incredibly fulfilling.”
He says one of his proudest achievements is successfully applying and expanding the skills he gained from the universities he attended in both India and New Zealand.
“I moved to Canada in 2019, and the hard and soft skills I developed, especially at AUT, have enabled me to transition seamlessly to life in Canada and rebuild my career in a new country from the ground up.”
An enjoyable learning environment
He still has fond memories of his time at AUT, says Gaurav who came to AUT as an international student to study a Master of Global Business
“Before joining AUT, I worked in the retail sector where I gained firsthand experience in the global trade of imported goods. This sparked my interest in studying international business. AUT’s Master of Global Business stood out to me because of its well-balanced approach, integrating both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. That was exactly what I was looking for to advance my career.”
He says the modern learning environment, friendly and experienced lecturers, and the innovative curriculum were all aspects he appreciated about studying at AUT.
“My first business research project at AUT focused on assisting international students with end-to-end resettlement services. This project made me realise the significant challenges international students face when relocating to a new country. That realisation then led me to support Ask A Student, a thriving peer-to-peer student networking platform that continues to support future students worldwide.
“Other great experiences for me included being a student ambassador where I had the opportunity to work with new students and expand my network, while attending events like the AUT Breakfast Club and volunteering at Project Connect helped me develop valuable professional connections. I also truly enjoyed being part of AUT’s vibrant multicultural student community. Auckland’s dynamic atmosphere and modern city life are things I still miss.”
Advice for other students
Gaurav – who graduated with distinction in 2016, and is proud of being invited into the Beta Gamma Sigma Society and being asked to join the AUT Business School’s international alumni reference group – has some great advice for other students.
“As New Zealand’s youngest university, AUT offers a unique level of flexibility, creativity, and innovation in its programmes. These qualities are essential for professionals navigating today’s fast-changing world.”
Make the most of your time at AUT, he adds.
“Take advantage of AUT’s opportunities to explore, experiment, and develop the skills needed to thrive in any career path.”
