UNAIR NEWS – Securing a position at a global “Big Four” professional services firm such as Deloitte is a goal shared by many recent graduates. For Syahrul Bahar, a graduate of the Mathematics program at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), that goal has become a tangible achievement. His career trajectory reflects not luck, but deliberate preparation, strong technical foundations, and a sustained commitment to personal growth. He currently serves in a strategic role as an AI and Data Consultant at Deloitte.
From self-directed learning to global impact
Bahar’s professional path did not unfold overnight. After graduating in 2016, he identified a clear gap between university coursework and the practical skills required in the data and analytics industry. To close that gap, he pursued data science independently through online learning platforms while beginning his career as a lecturer. Although data science was not his primary academic focus, Bahar credits FST UNAIR with equipping him with solid soft skills that allowed him to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing field.
That persistence led to an opportunity when he was approached by Deloitte through LinkedIn. Today, as part of a global consulting firm, Bahar contributes directly to industry by helping banks apply AI technology to personalize product offerings. He is also involved in strategic government initiatives related to data governance. “Our work must deliver clear outcomes. We support companies and public institutions in developing innovation and accountable data governance frameworks,” he said.
Keys to thriving in global consulting industry
According to Bahar, working in a multinational consulting environment demands more than technical expertise. He emphasized that stakeholder management and effective communication are critical at Deloitte. As a consultant, he is responsible for ensuring that every recommendation is supported by thorough analysis and credible data. “Beyond problem-solving skills, managing client relationships is essential. We have to be fully aware of data quality before proposing innovative solutions,” he explained.
Bahar also offered advice to FST UNAIR students aiming for international careers. He encouraged them not to focus exclusively on student organizations, but to actively build professional networks through targeted internships. Most importantly, he underscored the value of a continuous learning mindset. “The biggest investment we can make is recognizing that we always have more to learn. With technology evolving so quickly, constant self-improvement is the best preparation for the future,” he concluded.
Author: Marissa Farikha Siti Fatimatuzzahra
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
