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Talking BI, Career Paths & Cork with Nikhil Gharu
Nikhil joined UCC Academy in April as BI Analyst. Originally from Chandigarh in India, he's lived in Ireland for two years. When we caught up with him, we learned that Nikhil is quickly making Cork his home and has become a keen GAA supporter.
Can you share a little about your role with us?
"As a Business Intelligence Analyst, I am part of the Academy Finance Team, supporting the business with BI and data capabilities, and managing and tracking key metrics. I also work on optimising and automating existing processes within the Academy to enhance overall efficiency.
"In addition, I am pleased to collaborate with the UCC Finance Team, developing insightful reports that support broader governance and reporting needs across UCC."
Why is business intelligence so important?
Business intelligence is like having headlights on a dark road, it doesn’t just help you see what’s ahead, it lets you choose the best route. As a data analyst, I use BI to build a clear narrative connecting the past, present, and future so businesses can make smarter decisions.
We’d love to learn about your professional background, what areas have you worked in?
"After completing an MBA in Marketing and Operations, I worked for five years as a management consultant. I have been lucky to work with many of the Fortune 500 companies. A standout experience was serving as a consultant with Google to help launch Google Navlekha, a pioneering program empowering offline newspapers and magazines in India to bring their content online and expand their digital reach.
"During my time as a management consultant, I retained a keen interest in Business Analytics. In September 2023, I came to Ireland to study for an MSc in Business Analytics at Dublin Business School. I loved living in Dublin, but I was searching for jobs elsewhere in Ireland when the opportunity arose to apply for the position of BI Analyst in UCC Academy."
Critical question Nikhil: Dublin or Cork, which is your favourite city?
"I am a big Cork fan! Dublin is very happening, but I was looking for somewhere a little quieter for my wife and I to live. When I got the job at UCC Academy, I moved to Cork. Now I feel like I belong in Cork. My wife Chetna will join me soon, and we are delighted that this city will be our home.
"Since I moved here, I've become a fan of Gaelic Football. I went to a match in Kerry with Niall Gilis from the Academy to see Kerry v Cork. The game was excellent - passionate and with great sportsmanship and just the right amount of aggression. As Cork is my home now, I cheered for Cork of course. I am looking forward to seeing a hurling match in person when I will shout for Cork."
What else do you like to do in Cork?
"When I can, I like to eat out. There is an excellent, authentic South Indian restaurant I would like to recommend called The Dosa Spot on Washington Street. They serve great biryani, customised to suit your palate—with a range of spice levels to choose from. I’ve already recommended this restaurant to a few Academy colleagues and I’d love to hear what people think when they visit Dosa Spot."
Would you like to tell us about where you come from in India?
"I’m from the city of Chandigarh, which is also known as The City Beautiful. It was the first planned city, post-independence in India, and was designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.
"Chandigarh is very clean and green with lots of trees. It’s also a happening spot, and I grew up there and completed all my education in India in Chandigarh. Before coming to Ireland, I worked in Gurgaon, which is part of Delhi NCR, for two and a half years."
What do you like about working in UCC Academy?
As a business analyst, the tools I use are almost always the same at each workplace. Therefore, for me, what makes a company is the culture of the business and its people, and this is what I like most about the Academy. The people are very welcoming, considerate and supportive.
"Finding accommodation in Cork was difficult due to a lack of available housing, but everyone at work was very supportive and genuinely pleased for me when I found a place to live. Some colleagues even asked if I needed help moving in, and I really appreciate that. UCC Academy feels like home."
Thanks you Nikhil for taking part in Quick Fire Questions. It was wonderful to speak with you.