Elaheh Farahani

Profile

What are your motivations for applying for the role?

I am applying for the role of President because I want to use my leadership, organizational, and management experience to strengthen the club’s presence at Heriot-Watt and create a meaningful impact on the student community. Having studied both Business & Finance and now Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Heriot-Watt, I have seen how much value student-led initiatives add to personal and professional growth. I want to ensure that the club continues to be a dynamic platform where students feel empowered, engaged, and supported.

My motivation also comes from my professional background, where I have consistently led teams, optimized operations, and exceeded ambitious KPIs, achieving results such as 200% performance targets, $1M+ in cost savings, and successful cross-functional project delivery. These experiences have sharpened my ability to communicate effectively, build consensus, and manage resources strategically - all qualities I believe are essential for this role.

Most importantly, I am motivated by a genuine passion for leadership and collaboration. I want to build an inclusive community where members can share knowledge, develop skills, and explore opportunities beyond the classroom. As President, I would aim not only to uphold the club’s standards but also to introduce innovative initiatives that reflect the diverse interests of our members and enhance the reputation of Heriot-Watt's student community.

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

I bring a strong blend of leadership, management, and organizational skills that I believe make me well-suited for the role of President. With over four years of professional experience in logistics, procurement, and business development, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to lead teams, manage resources effectively, and deliver results under pressure. For example, I have achieved up to 200% of KPIs, negotiated contracts that saved over $1M, and successfully led cross-functional projects with diverse stakeholders.

At Heriot-Watt, my academic journey in Business, Finance, and now Logistics and Supply Chain Management has further equipped me with strategic thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. My recognition through scholarships and commendations reflects my commitment to excellence and perseverance.

Additionally, I bring strong interpersonal skills, multilingual abilities (English, Persian, Arabic), and experience with digital tools such as SAP, Oracle, and Power BI, all of which enable me to organize effectively, analyze situations, and make data-driven decisions.

Most importantly, my experience in both professional and student settings has taught me how to inspire collaboration, build inclusive communities, and lead with vision. I would apply these skills to ensure the club not only operates smoothly but also grows into a platform that empowers members and enhances the wider Heriot-Watt student experience.

What would be your top three priorities during your term as President?

1. Building an Engaged and Inclusive Community: I would prioritize creating a welcoming environment where every member feels valued and inspired to participate. This means introducing mentorship opportunities, networking events, and interactive workshops that allow members to develop skills, share knowledge, and build lasting connections.
2. Driving Professional and Personal Development: Drawing on my experience in logistics, business, and leadership, I would ensure the club becomes a platform for growth. I would organize career-focused events, collaborations with industry professionals, and training sessions on leadership, negotiation, and digital tools, equipping members with skills that extend beyond university life.
3. Enhancing the Club’s Visibility and Impact: I would work to raise the profile of the club both within Heriot-Watt and externally. This includes fostering partnerships with other societies, alumni, and industry contacts, as well as launching innovative initiatives that highlight the talent and creativity of our members. My goal is to leave behind a stronger, more recognized, and sustainable club for future students.