Each Master of Business and Science (MBS) student has a unique journey through our program. In our Alumni Spotlight series, we share the stories of our alumni and how they've turned their academic knowledge into impactful careers.
This month, we're spotlighting Chidera Okafor! Okafor graduated in 2017 with a concentration in Data Analytics. As a data leader working at the intersection of analytics and business transformation, she has held positions at influential organizations including Deloitte, Meta, and Amazon. Currently, she serves as Senior Business Intelligence Engineer at Amazon.
1. What initially drew you to your field? Can you share some information about your professional journey?
My interest started during my undergraduate program at the University of Delaware, where I studied economics, and picked up minors in information systems and business administration. That initial exposure sparked a strong interest in how data can be used to make better business decisions, which led me to pursue roles at the intersection of business, technology, and data—starting with Deloitte, where I worked as a data analytics consultant. After a year, I took a career break to pursue the MBS program full time, then returned to Deloitte. I later joined Meta, and most recently Amazon, where I’ve continued building expertise in analytics, automation, and AI-driven strategy. At every step, I’ve been drawn to the opportunity to improve systems, drive efficiency, and create meaningful impact through data.
2. What first interested you in the Rutgers MBS degree? Why did you choose this program?
What stood out to me about the MBS program was its unique blend of technical training and business acumen. I didn’t want to choose between deepening my data science skills and developing leadership capabilities—I wanted both, so it was perfect for me. The Analytics and Data Science courses offered the technical rigor I was looking for, while the courses in innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership and communication helped me build the soft skills needed to lead and influence. I also really appreciated the flexibility of the program and the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of professionals from various industries.
3. How has an MBS education benefited you post-graduation?
I would say the MBS program made me a better-rounded individual. It expanded my technical and analytical toolkit, while also equipping me to lead from a business and strategic mindset. That ability to understand the business and communicate insights effectively is one of the most important skills for any data professional today. The MBS degree gave me the foundation to succeed in high-impact roles across top companies. I’ve applied the skills I gained at Rutgers to build scalable analytics tools at Amazon, improve enforcement systems at Meta, and contribute to high-impact client work across industries at Deloitte. Beyond the classroom, the MBS network has also been a valuable source of mentorship and networking. I built relationships with some really good people during my program.
4. What are some achievements in your career that you're most proud of?
I’m especially proud of the work I’ve done at the intersection of analytics and business transformation. At Amazon, I contributed to the development of tools that improved transportation planning and network efficiency across North America. At Meta, I led key analytical initiatives and built solutions that significantly improved platform integrity, making Facebook and Instagram safer for everyone. These experiences not only drove tangible outcomes but also pushed me to grow as a leader and collaborator. I’ve really enjoyed seeing the scale and impact of my work—knowing I am improving the lives and experiences of so many people in meaningful ways is a big motivator for me. Another meaningful achievement has been mentoring early-career professionals and watching them thrive in their own careers—something I find deeply rewarding.
5. Have you received any awards, honors, or special recognition for your work?
Yes, I was recently honored with the 2025 Global Recognition Award for excellence in data analytics leadership and innovation, which was very fulfilling for me. I’ve also received multiple performance awards and recognition throughout my career at Meta, Deloitte, and Amazon. Those have been good affirmations of the quality and impact of my work.
6. How have you contributed to innovation and impacted your industry?
My work sits at the intersection of data, technology, and operations—transforming how organizations make decisions and deliver value. From improving supply chain efficiency at Amazon to enhancing trust and safety at Meta, I’ve worked on solutions that shape industry standards and influence how large-scale systems operate. At Meta, I developed a novel algorithm to identify copyright violations, improving enforcement outcomes and influencing global platform policies. I’ve participated in industry conferences, served as a peer reviewer for scholarly journals in my field, and mentored aspiring data professionals. I care deeply about contributing to a field that’s constantly evolving, and I see every project, paper, or mentorship opportunity as a way to help move the discipline forward, through both innovation and leadership.
7. Do you have any advice for current or prospective students?
Stay curious and open to learning in different areas. I believe a key strength of the MBS program is in its interdisciplinary nature—don’t be afraid to explore courses or opportunities outside your comfort zone, you might be surprised by what you learn about yourself through the process. And most importantly, take initiative. The program gives you the tools and the network, but it’s up to you to turn those into impact.
8. Is there anything else that you would like to share?
The MBS experience played a pivotal role in shaping who I am as a data leader. The program helped me build a strong foundation in analytics while giving me the confidence to show up as a leader in any situation I find myself in—with or without a title. I’m especially grateful to have been part of a program that continues to be intentional about supporting its students and alumni—offering not just an education, but a lifelong community and support system.
For more stories like this, see our previous MBS alumni spotlights:
- Matthew Brennan, MBS’17
- Trevor Johnson, MBS’20
- Tatiana Luts, MBS’23
- Suleiman Ali Shakir, MBS’19