Daniela da Silva has worked for the UN for almost 17 years; after an international career in the field, she’s now thriving at UNOPS HQ in Copenhagen
Getting off the Metro at Nordhavn station in Copenhagen I was met by a blast of bone-chilling October air. I walked down the steps onto Østbanegade, prayed my scarf would hold up against the elements, and battled the wind all the way to the UN City complex on the waterfront.I was meeting Daniela da Silva, infrastructure and project management advisor for the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), located within UN City. She’s worked for the United Nations for almost 17 years—a career that has taken her to East Timor, Côte d’Ivoire, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Nepal.
After Nepal she joined UNOPS in New York, then became head of office for the organization’s operations in Brazil, before moving to Copenhagen and UNOPS headquarters in February 2017.
In between all that, she graduated with an MBA from in 2011.
You might think that someone on Daniela’s career path had a trajectory in place that would evoke feelings of content. But, with a degree and pre-UN background in civil engineering, a few years into her post in New York she says she was after something that would complement her technical skills more. An MBA was the answer.
“In the UN, having civil engineering is great if you want to remain as a technical expert. But I didn’t,” she explains.
“I wanted to go more into managerial and leadership roles, so I wanted to equip myself better. A CV where you have a combination of engineering and business education makes you a more ideal candidate, rather than just an MBA or just civil engineering.”
This is specifically the case, Daniela says, in the organization she works for, which has a key mandate in infrastructure development.
She adds that she knew she wasn’t after a career change when she began the MBA. It was always her plan to remain in the UN, with a CV that would enable her to pursue more challenging, leadership roles.
“Doing the MBA meant I was able broaden my horizons,” she says. “In the long term, I knew that I needed to have a Master’s in order to progress in the UN.”
Copenhagen Business School prevailed, Daniela explains, because she was after an MBA program that covered all bases but didn’t take her out of the workforce for two years.
“The thing I really liked about CBS was the leadership program, and that to me, is still the biggest takeaway from the MBA,” she adds.
After she graduated from the MBA, Daniela returned to New York. She then moved to Brazil to open and lead the organization’s operations in Brasilia.
Her private life then took precedent after she had a child and made the decision with her partner—who’s Danish—to return to Copenhagen. The decision fell in line with her career too, as UNOPS headquarters offered the chance to bring her field experience back into the office.
“I’d never worked in a headquarters,” she says, “and it’s important when you work for the UN that you have field experience, but also the chance to apply what you’ve learned in the context of HQ.”
She brought with her a skillset enhanced by the , but also life experience developed over a long career working around the world.
The MBA classroom at Copenhagen Business School mimicked Daniela’s world experience too. She says she was part of a diverse, dynamic cohort who were willing to collaborate and share knowledge together.
“I think all of us were curious about each other and knew the importance of curiosity—to discover what you don’t know,” she adds.
In her current role, Daniela works in a multi-skilled, multicultural team, with colleagues working in English, Spanish, and French.
She currently leads a small team of infrastructure and project management advisors who support field officers with their day-to-day operational challenges—this could cover projects like building a school in Afghanistan, or a bridge in Haiti, she adds.
This kind of responsibility is a case in point, Daniela explains, of how the MBA can help you run an organization efficiently—by combining her engineering and business experience, she is revelling in a leadership role.
Daniela says she is often contacted by either students, or alumni, about how to launch a career at the UN. Education is of course important, she explains, but your CV must be a cocktail of practical experience—the number one criterion.
“As a business student looking into career with the UN, you don’t have to worry too much about doing more than a Masters,” Daniela concludes.
“An education is key, but it is very important that you get out there and get exposure—two or three job experiences in different fields and/or countries. Then, of course, once you get the right job, it’s important that you continue to invest in self training, whether on the job or through certification.”
Student Reviews
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
