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Joseph Gitau Mburu (2018)

Joseph Gitau Mburu graduated from CCLS with a Law and Economics LLM and is now Head of Payments Services Policy Development & Data Analysis at the Central Bank of Kenya

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Joseph Gitau Mburu in a shirt and tie

Why did you choose to study at CCLS?

My choice of CCLS was rather coincidental but very interesting. QMUL was actually my second choice among the UK universities that had given me an unconditional offer. However, after probing further, it quickly became clear that QMUL/CCLS’s inter-disciplinary programmes presented a much better and compelling offer than the single-track from my first choice university. I never regret making changes and joining CCLS. The twin focus on law and economics, with regulation as the meeting point between the two disciplines, was precisely what I needed to grow in my career. I absolutely loved the faculty – leading global experts in their fields – and the fact that being in the middle of London as a financial centre, we had the rare privilege of guest lectures by leading industry practitioners in financial law, commercial law and regulatory practice.

What was your favourite memory as a CCLS student?

I have three actually! First, a guest lecture by the legendary Prof. Charles Goodhart, a leading central banking expert; always admired his writing and work. I was very thrilled to be in a guest lecture he gave on financial supervision. Second, a guest lecture we were given by Charles Randell CBE, who was literally on the front row seat in advising the UK government during the 2007/2008 financial crisis and was later appointed as Chairman of the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Finally, I loved the international mix of students at CCLS, drawn from literally all corners of the globe!

What does being a member of the CCLS community mean to you?

A bit prestigious… most people I interact with greatly admire my dual law and economics qualification. Also, I have since signed up to be a Lead Alumni Ambassador for Kenya, so it is very satisfying to help potential candidates join CCLS.

How did your CCLS experience contribute to your career?

First, the twin focus on law and economics has hugely improved my understanding and practice on financial regulation. Second, I am now able to analyse policy and payments topics (my current professional focus) from a legal point of view. Finally, given the extensive international exposure I got at CCLS, I am able to view my work and professional issues from a global perspective.

Why do you think prospective students should study at CCLS?

CCLS is well endowed with hugely experienced faculty; a large international community of students resident at CCLS, and access to leading law firms and legal practitioners who come to class to give guest lectures. This also presents opportunities for expert interviews when doing module thesis and programme thesis. Finally, there is a very wide range of different modules and topics to choose from. Last but not least, London is a cultural melting pot, and there are great places to visit to unwind and take short breaks.

What course did you study?

LLM Law and Economics.

What year did you complete your course? 

  1. I graduated (in absentia) in December 2018.

What is your current role and company?

Head of Payments Services Policy Development & Data Analysis-Central Bank of Kenya

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