Why data is crucial for employers: Webinar recap
As the role of data in business continues to grow, understanding how to harness it effectively has become a major priority for employers. With analyst roles projected to grow by 23% by 2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), demand for professionals who can turn data into actionable insights is only increasing.
That was the focus of our recent webinar, “Why data is crucial for employers”, hosted by Dr Fabienne Chedid, Programme Director of the online MSc in Business Analytics from Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University. The panel discussion brought together academic leaders and an industry expert to explore what skills are in demand, how data is shaping decision-making, and how our MSc programme equips students to lead with data.
Fabienne was joined by Dr Tarek Kandil, Programme Director for the MSc Business Analytics programme at the Dubai campus, Dr Paulus Aditjandra, Course leader for Business Analytics and Reflective Portfolio, and Carl Etienne Chaaya, Consultant at Kearney.
Flexible learning, global reach
Fabienne opened the session by introducing the flexible, fully online structure of the MSc Business Analytics, designed to fit around busy professional and personal lives.
“This programme is very flexible, accessible and inclusive. You can access [the course materials] anywhere, anytime,” she explained.
The course offers videos, interactive case studies, e-textbooks, self-assessment tools, and forums - all accessible via the Edinburgh Business School Student Portal. The portal also provides access to a collaborative discussion forum, to “help you engage not only with other students or colleagues, but also with faculty members and course leaders,” Fabienne added.
You can study one course at a time, take breaks as needed or exit early with a postgraduate certificate or diploma - so you always stay in control of your learning journey.
Bridging theory and practice: core courses in business analytics
Next, the panel explored how the core courses help students apply their learning to real business problems, with Paulus giving insight into the programme’s practical approach.
He explained that the Business Analytics course “will improve your ability to tackle decision-making problems using data-driven methods.
“The course examines the roots of quantitative decision-making and develops an understanding as to how the techniques and models contribute to better decision-making.”
A highlight of the programme is the reflective portfolio capstone project, where students demonstrate their skills by organising and conducting a project using methods learnt throughout the course. Paulus said: “It provides the opportunity to show that you have gained the necessary skills and knowledge to organise and conduct a project through applying the methods and techniques acquired during the programme.
“It should demonstrate that you are skilled in identifying critical incidents in the business analytics domain.”
Industry readiness and employability in the data-driven world
Adding an industry perspective, Carl shared what employers really want from business analytics graduates:
“Employers do not really want to hire people who only have a theoretical background that just know how to do Business Analytics by the book.
“They want their employees to be data-driven and come up with evidence to any business solutions they have.”
He stressed that communication skills are just as important as technical know-how:
“You might have conducted the most amazing analysis, but how you communicate that information is what truly changes the minds of clients, boards or CEOs.”
Throughout the programme, you’ll be trained to use industry-standard tools, create dashboards and present findings in ways that influence decision-making - skills that employers expect from day one.
Evolving trends and skills for the future of analytics
Looking to the future, the panellists explored how the programme stays ahead of the rapid changes in the analytics field - from the rise of AI and automation to the growing demand for real-time data processing and ethical data use.
Tarek mentioned the shift towards AI-driven analytics, explaining:
“We have to move from a decision-making process to decision-making intelligence… and even to excellence in decision-making. Real-time analytics is becoming more important to meet the demands of dynamic business environments, like forensic finance, logistics and supply chains.”
But it’s not just about the tech. The conversation highlighted how technical proficiency alone isn’t enough anymore. Employers increasingly expect graduates to demonstrate critical thinking, data storytelling and the ability to communicate insights clearly, especially to non-technical audiences.
The panel also spoke about the value of soft skills and how they’re developed through online learning. As Fabienne put it:
“Don’t underestimate the indirect skills you gain - like time management, self-management and virtual collaboration. These are all things employers are looking for, no matter the field.”
Together, their insights show how the online MSc Business Analytics equips students with both cutting-edge tools and the adaptable, future-ready mindset to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.
Making the most of your online experience
To wrap up the webinar, the panellists shared practical advice to help you get the most from your MSc Business Analytics experience.
Paulus stressed the importance of connecting theory to your own life: “Use your own experience - whether it is from personal experience or your professional experience - to explore how these theories and concepts are applicable to your needs.”
Fabienne added, “Try to formulate a consistent routine that fits your own commitments and projects and at the same time allows you to be consistent in your engagement.”
Watch the full discussion
Learn to lead with data
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, changing fields or stepping into analytics for the first time, the MSc Business Analytics from Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University offers the flexibility and real-world skills to take your next step with confidence.
Ready to lead with data? Explore the MSc Business Analytics and enrol today.