Umut Arda Yavuz
Marketing Specialist
+43
Email:
Address:
Vienna, Austria
Languages:
English, German, Turkish
Phone:
EXPERIENCE
2024
Sales and Performance Management (Internship)
BMW GROUP
I worked with the BMW Motorrad Customer, Brand, and Sales team, which was responsible for sales and performance management in the German market. This team had three different functions: Business development, Retail Qualifications, and Pricing. I supported these functions with the following task:
► Increased BMW's BMSI package visibility by organizing and creating 6 outfits from BMW Motorrad's new 2025 G&G collection for a BMSI photoshoot in Almeria, Spain, with 3 models. This marketing material will be used in all BMSI-related campaigns over the next 2 years.
► Assisted in global product training for the product launch of the new R 1300 GS and R 1300 GS Adventure, enhancing global sales effectiveness and contributing to a successful worldwide go-to-market strategy.
► Created an automated Excel sheet to calculate the global MTD of all business sales to help steer business operations. This resulted in identifying the declining market performance of particular products
► Optimized retail training programs to further promote the BMW brand on a customer level. This resulted in changes in how different distributors were trained in international markets
2022 - 2023
UNILEVER
Global Consumer Market Insights (Internship)
As a Global Consumer Market Insight intern, I researched consumer behaviour and shopping habits. I then use this information to help develop reports and briefings to help with brand decisions for different products. Furthermore, some of my achievements are listed below;
► Designed a general alignment for market research methodologies used for Indonesia Hair Care 2023 market research.
► Arranged and led external meetings with partner organizations
► Developed promotional advertising video for internal employees to use to explain a marketing application. Which was distributed globally to all CMI teams.
► Analyzed consumer and market data for the Netherlands and Belgium for 2023. Using statistical analysis built a complex Excel sheet to calculate VMS % and CAGR for each product and product category, which was then presented to the Benelux managing members.
2022-2022
HOUSE MATCH
Founder (Start-up)
House Match is a start-up company which creates a platform for students and working professionals to have an easier time finding roommates and housing together. During this start-up experience, some of the tasks I had are listed below:
► Conducted market research to identify a gap in housing patterns for international and local students within Rotterdam
► Created a solution by making a platform to help students find roommates and rental properties
► Managed a team of 5 students for each varying branch of the company, then arranged consultation sessions with Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship (ECE) for further developing the start-up
► Built company website displaying listed properties, profile creation for users, and landing page
EDUCATION
2023-2024
Imperial College London
Mater of Science (MSc)
Pursuing the MSc in Strategic Marketing at Imperial College Business School has been a transformative experience for me. As one of the most prestigious programs globally, it has provided me with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern marketing. The program’s emphasis on data-driven strategies, digital transformation, and consumer insights aligns perfectly with my passion for using technology and creativity to drive impactful marketing initiatives.
What I value most about this degree is its unique balance between academic rigour and real-world application. Working on hands-on projects and learning from leading industry practitioners has allowed me to hone my skills in areas like strategic brand management, digital marketing, and customer relationship management. Being part of Imperial, a global leader in innovation and technology, has also pushed me to think critically and collaborate across disciplines.
For me, this degree isn’t just about mastering marketing concepts – it’s about shaping the future of the industry by combining strategy, creativity, and technology. It’s a journey that has prepared me to tackle challenges and lead confidently in a rapidly evolving global market.
2020-2023
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Studying for my BSc in International Business Administration at Erasmus University Rotterdam was a defining chapter in my academic and personal growth. This program, recognized as one of the best in Europe, provided me with a solid foundation in global business management, with a focus on innovation, strategy, and cultural intelligence.
The truly international environment at Erasmus was a highlight for me. Collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds challenged me to think globally and develop a well-rounded perspective on business challenges. The program’s emphasis on analytical thinking and problem-solving allowed me to refine my skills in areas such as strategic management, marketing, and organizational behaviour.
My thesis, which focused on the applications of AI for optimizing marketing automation in CRM processes, was a culmination of my passion for integrating technology and business strategy. This research not only deepened my understanding of the evolving role of AI in marketing but also solidified my ability to approach complex problems with innovative solutions.
Earning this degree has equipped me with the tools to thrive in an international business environment, combining academic excellence, practical application, and a global mindset – values that continue to shape my professional journey.
2006-2020
Primary - International Baccalaureate (IB)
Vienna International School (VIS)
Completing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with Higher Level courses in Physics, Economics, and Geography and Standard Level courses in Mathematics, English, and German was an academically rigorous and transformative experience. The program’s interdisciplinary approach challenged me to think critically, manage my time effectively, and tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives.
Through my HL courses, I developed analytical and practical skills that continue to serve me today. Physics taught me precision and logical reasoning, Economics nurtured my understanding of global systems and decision-making, and Geography expanded my awareness of environmental and social dynamics. Meanwhile, my SL subjects strengthened my language proficiency and mathematical reasoning, equipping me with the tools to communicate effectively and analyze data accurately.
The IB’s holistic focus, particularly the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge (TOK), encouraged me to explore connections between disciplines and approach challenges with a balanced and open mindset. This experience laid a strong foundation for my academic and professional journey, shaping my ability to think globally, adapt to diverse environments, and excel in demanding situations.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Excel
Adobe - Premiere Pro
Adobe - Photoshop
SEO - Google Analytics
CRM
R-Programming
EXPERTISE
Strategic Marketing and Communication
Data-Driven Decision Making and Analysis
I have developed a deep expertise in strategic marketing and communication through my MSc studies at Imperial College London and hands-on experience at BMW Motorrad and Unilever. I excel at creating impactful, data-driven strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Whether it’s crafting engaging training materials for global product launches or developing promotional content for internal campaigns, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to simplify complex ideas and deliver results-oriented, audience-focused communication.
My ability to analyze data and transform it into actionable insights has been a key strength throughout my academic and professional journey. From my BSc thesis on AI applications in CRM processes to building statistical models at Unilever to assess product performance, I have honed my proficiency with tools like advanced Excel, R programming, and Adobe Suite. I thrive in roles where I can leverage data to inform strategic decisions, especially in fast-paced, tech-driven environments.
Global Business and Cross-Cultural Collaboration
Having studied and worked across the UK, Netherlands, Austria, and Germany, I have developed a strong expertise in navigating multicultural and international environments. Leading diverse teams, such as during my start-up venture in Rotterdam, and collaborating with global stakeholders at BMW and Unilever, I have honed my adaptability, leadership, and cultural sensitivity. I take pride in bringing people together, understanding diverse perspectives, and creating strategies that succeed on a global scale.