Laith Al-Yacoub

My Graduate Story

My name is Laith Al-Yacoub and I completed a MA in Water Resources Technology and Management at the University of Birmingham. I now work as a Senior Policy Analyst at the Royal Hashemite Court (RHC).

My role involves assessing and compiling key national water and environmental data to inform decision-making. I focus on initiatives like the "Sustainable Resources" and "Green Jordan" projects, working closely with ministries at high levels to ensure effective policy implementation and follow-up on Royal initiatives.

A Day in my Life

As a Senior Policy Analyst, my day typically involves researching and analyzing critical national water and environmental issues. I gather and compile comprehensive memos that help guide the King’s local and international initiatives. I collaborate with various ministries and stakeholders to present accurate information for decision-making. My role is centred around sustainability, and I often work on long-term projects related to national water security, environmental policies, and modernization strategies.

My Journey to RHC

After completing my master’s degree, I joined Hyder Consulting, a British company, where I worked on various design projects across the Middle East. While it took several months of persistent applications to find a job, my M.Sc. in Water Resources Technology and Management gave me the foundation to kickstart my career in the water industry. Over the years, I have gained invaluable experience, and today, I apply the knowledge from my degree to my work on sustainability and national resource management.

My Birmingham Experience

The University of Birmingham's M.Sc. in Water Resources Technology and Management offered me a strong theoretical foundation in the water industry. Although the course was challenging and sometimes required sleepless nights, it equipped me with the necessary skills to solve complex, real-world problems. The dedication, professionalism, and analytical thinking I developed have been crucial in my career, and I continue to apply what I learned even 15 years later.

Birmingham's Impact

The theoretical knowledge I gained from my course at the University of Birmingham prepared me to approach challenges in the water sector and sustainability with a high level of professionalism. It taught me the importance of thinking critically and analytically, which has been crucial for my role at the Royal Hashemite Court.

My Achievements

One memorable achievement during my studies was my master’s thesis, which focused on fluid turbulence—a topic linked to one of the unsolved equations in classical physics. Although I didn’t solve it, it was a significant experience that taught me the value of viewing problems from a broader perspective.

Advice for Students

My advice to current students is: "You won’t truly understand what you want until you try." Explore different industries and sectors where your degree can apply. For example, a water engineer can work in civil engineering, but they can also contribute to sustainability efforts in the fashion industry, helping to reduce water consumption. Diversifying your job search and thinking outside the box will expand your career opportunities.