James Buchan

James Buchan
MA Business and Economics, 2010

What made you choose to study at Heriot-Watt?
The University had a strong business school, and after attending the open day I really liked the campus and the format of the courses.

Why were you thinking about an MA in Business and Economics in particular?
At secondary school I was really interested in mathematics, economics and business. This course brought all these elements together. I also wanted the ability to do a business plan in my final year, and the framework allowed me the flexibility to do this.

What's your favourite or most memorable memory of your time as a Heriot-Watt student?
I would say my favourite memory is arriving in the Robert Bryson halls for the first time. Thinking back, I had a sense of freedom and purpose which I hadn't experienced before. It was amazing to make new friends, experience the campus life, get started on the degree journey, and join different clubs to try things out for the first time. It was fantastic to feel like I was on my way to achieving something special while having lots of fun along the way.

How would you summarise your time studying at Heriot-Watt University?
My time at Heriot-Watt was one of the best experiences in my life. From the friendships I have made to the learning experience it was a very enjoyable time for me. At times it wasn't easy, but this makes me look back more fondly with a huge sense of achievement.

Please provide a brief summary of your career, including your current role at ZUDU
After graduating I was a little unsure of my next steps and the road ahead seemed daunting. After spending a summer thinking about it and travelling, I moved to London to take a role as a data analyst in the retail, consumer packaged goods and energy sectors.

This role took me to the US, Japan and China where I was in charge of implementing big data systems for Walmart. It was when I was abroad that I pondered my lifelong desire to start a business and hatched an idea to start a digital agency. Since then I have been heading up Zudu, focusing on digital development and marketing solutions in the UK and China, alongside some other business ventures in recruitment software and Chinese market entry platforms. I'm also the current president of the Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce.

How has your Heriot-Watt University education contributed to your success?
I woudn't be where I am today if it wasn't for my time at Heriot-Watt. My degree has supported my career evolution from being involved in data analytics to doing a business plan as my dissertation in my final year. The experiences and the good friends I made along the way have also supported me to follow my ambitions in life.

What would you like to achieve in your current role?
I want to foster a community and culture of innovation within Scotland, and support the future prosperity of the country through entrepreneurship and supporting young people.

What advice would you give to your past self when you were a student?
Sit back every once in a while, to take it all in and really appreciate the moment. You will want to keep these memories for the rest of your life.

What advice do you have for current students?
Learn to study smart, not just study hard. Enjoy the journey as well as the destination.

What is your lasting impression of Heriot-Watt University?
A university at the vanguard of education and research.

What are your aspirations for the future?
(a) For your career?
Beyond Zudu, I hope to lead several successful tech start-ups.
(b) For your local and wider community?
Being based in Dundee, I hope to support this budding tech community to grow further. On a Scotland-wide scale, I hope to support the sustainable economic growth through supporting entrepreneurship and giving young people the best possible opportunities for a bright future.

Can you tell us a little about your own background away from work, family, other interests etc.
Doing business is my passion and this drives me in life, but I know it is important to take time out to set the mind free. I'm a keen rugby player and fan of the national team – there's nothing like a home game at Murrayfield!

I also play the ukulele and currently learning Mandarin.