August 20, 2025
Meet Sydney Business School, UOW Alumni, Sourabh Arya
Student spotlight: Sourabh Arya
Meet Sourabh Arya, an Operations Supervisor at Amazon Australia and proud graduate of the 51²è¹Ý’s , where he completed a dual Master’s in and . Leading a team of more than 60 associates at the country’s largest delivery station, Sourabh ensures thousands of parcels reach customers on time every day. “My role is all about balance,” he says, “using data to drive decisions while keeping people motivated so we deliver excellence together.”
From UOW to Amazon: Sourabh Arya’s journey in logistics leadership
Sourabh Arya is an Operations Supervisor at Amazon Australia, working in the dynamic and fast-paced world of logistics and supply chain management. At the country’s largest volume-handling delivery station, he leads a team of more than 60 associates, ensuring that thousands of parcels reach customers on time every day. His role is a balance of people leadership, data-driven decision-making, and process optimization, where he focuses on meeting strict performance and safety targets while keeping his team engaged and motivated.
How UOW shaped his career
Looking back, Sourabh describes his time at the 51²è¹Ý as a transformative period that shaped his career trajectory. Completing a dual Master’s in and gave him both the technical skills and strategic acumen required to thrive in a global company. UOW provided him with a strong foundation in analytical thinking and customer-focused strategies, while the university’s collaborative learning culture and industry-linked projects helped him strengthen his communication and problem-solving abilities. These experiences have become central to his role at Amazon, where he applies them daily in managing people and improving operational processes.
Skills that proved most valuable
The knowledge and skills Sourabh gained at UOW have been pivotal in his professional life. His background in data analytics allows him to interpret complex datasets and use them to identify inefficiencies and improve workflows. His exposure to multicultural teamwork at UOW gave him the confidence to lead diverse teams effectively, a skill that is particularly valuable in Amazon’s global and inclusive workplace. He also points to the importance of strategic thinking, cultivated through his marketing and business strategy units, which taught him to look beyond immediate tasks and focus on long-term impacts. In addition, presentations, group projects, and mentoring roles at UOW developed his communication and stakeholder engagement skills, which he now relies on when leading large teams and working with colleagues across departments.
Overcoming challenges during study
Like many international students, Sourabh faced challenges when he first arrived in Australia. Balancing full-time study with part-time work was demanding, and adapting to a new academic system and lifestyle added to the difficulty. He recalls that the early months were particularly tough, but he managed to overcome these obstacles by establishing a strict time management routine, seeking support from mentors, and actively engaging with peer networks. These strategies not only helped him succeed academically but also strengthened his resilience and ability to perform under pressure—qualities that have become essential in his career in logistics.
Advice for students and graduates
For students and recent graduates aspiring to build a career in logistics and supply chain management, Sourabh emphasizes the importance of adaptability. The industry is evolving rapidly, and he encourages students to develop both technical and soft skills. Mastery of digital and analytical tools such as Excel, Power BI, and SQL is vital, but so too is the ability to lead and inspire people. He advises students to seek industry exposure early through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles, as these experiences not only build confidence but also open doors to future opportunities. Importantly, he encourages students to be proactive and look for ways to improve processes, even in entry-level roles, since small contributions are often noticed and valued.
A favourite UOW memory
Among his fondest memories from UOW, Sourabh highlights his experience as an International Peer Mentor. Welcoming new students, helping them adapt to university life, and watching them thrive was a deeply rewarding experience. It reminded him of his own journey when he first arrived in Australia and reinforced his belief in the importance of community and support networks. For him, this role was not only about giving back but also about building lasting connections and learning the value of mentorship.
The future of logistics
Sourabh believes that the logistics industry is moving towards a more data-driven, automated, and customer-focused future. With artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and robotics already transforming operations, he sees the future belonging to professionals who can adapt to technological advancements and think critically in the face of disruptions. He stresses that future graduates will need strong data analytics skills to make real-time decisions, alongside the adaptability to work confidently with new technologies. Just as importantly, inclusive leadership will be key to guiding diverse, global teams in an increasingly interconnected world.
Final message to UOW students
In closing, Sourabh reminds current UOW students that their degree is only the starting point. What truly makes a difference is how they apply what they have learned. He encourages them to say yes to opportunities, even those that may seem small at first, as these often lead to unexpected growth. Networking should be approached not just as a career strategy but also as a way to gain new perspectives and learn from others. Above all, he advises students not to fear failure, as every setback is a valuable lesson that brings them one step closer to success.