In her blog below, Kristen Kovacs, Associate Director of Experiential Learning and CEMS Corporate Relations Manager at Ivey, writes about a recent collaboration between CIBC and Ivey's MSc students for a research elective credit, which allowed the students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real business project.
During the fall semester, select Ivey MSc students collaborated with CIBC for a research elective credit, applying their expertise in data, analytics, and innovation to a banking automation initiative.
To join this project, the students engaged in a Dragons’ Den-style challenge where they tackled a case study and proposed various solutions to a panel of CIBC coaches. Following the presentations, a select group of students advanced to implementing work on the project for CIBC, progressing through different stages over the term. Tasks included drafting a statement of work, attending regular meetings, conducting data analysis, and delivering a final product presentation.
Collaboration drives innovation
MSc student Anthony Zou was one of the participants and said the student team’s collaboration with CIBC's data governance experts was pivotal.
“It was an engaging period marked by meaningful collaboration and significant strides in enhancing data governance practices. Our discussions went beyond routine meetings, fostering a productive exchange of ideas that refined our approach. This partnership ensured our solution was not only innovative, but also tailored to CIBC's specific needs,” he said. “I'm proud of what we achieved – a testament to the power of collaborative innovation in data governance. This experience was a significant step forward in my professional journey.”
Fellow MSc student Ansuya Bhatia said the experience was a valuable learning opportunity, providing profound insights into the intricacies of data management.
“Beyond the academic realm, this collaboration also played a pivotal role in expanding my professional network,” she said. “Overall, this endeavour not only bolstered CIBC's operational processes, but also enriched my educational journey with practical, real-world experience in the dynamic field of data governance and technology.”
Overall, the students leveraged the tools and techniques acquired during their academic studies and incorporated industry best practices to develop a solution that CIBC can integrate into its operations going forward.
Feedback from the professionals
CIBC representatives were pleased with the results. Here’s what they had to say.
Salimah Manji – Senior Manager, Education & Strategic Partnerships
"We were blown away by the entire experience, end to end, with Ivey Business School. The hospitality from our organizing partners, the level of engagement and curiosity from the students, and the overall professionalism led to a successful and innovative final product. Partnerships like these strengthen our bank, and simultaneously support the next generation of top talent. This data management consulting project was a collaboration for the books.”
Harmony Kan – Communications Marketing Consultant
“Having the opportunity to watch the students excel and grow throughout the duration of the project was an inspiring experience. It was a pleasure to see the high level of dedication displayed by the students alongside their growth of knowledge, experience, and confidence as they worked towards their final product. Thank you again to our organizing partners for their hospitality and support throughout this unforgettable partnership journey.”
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