Name: Fernando Mantese
Programme and year: Master of Public Policy, Class of 2025
Nationality: Brazilian
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPP programme at SPP?
I have a degree in Administration, with specialisation in Finance, and I’ve been working for the Brazilian Development Bank for more than 18 years. My professional experience includes different activities but is especially linked to providing access to finance to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
I made the decision to study Public Policy to prepare myself for the second half of my career: searching to become a more complete professional in this fascinating field; get a global perspective on contemporary challenges; and make positive impact. I chose the MPP programme at SPP because it offers a unique learning opportunity, combining academic excellence and invaluable practical experience, with access to leading researchers, professors and a wide range of resources from LSE, as well as an experienced and diverse group of colleagues.
What are the highlights from Welcome and your first few weeks?
The highlights were meeting the amazing cohort, SPP’s great team and the LSE campus, all while enjoying London. The first weeks were essential to understand the programme and make important choices, not only about optional courses but also regarding planning and prioritised skills.
What have you been most surprised to learn?
Being away from academic life for a long time I was surprised with the importance given to soft skills and simplicity, even in traditional courses which convey sophisticated techniques. I believe this connects with a key learning, which is that public policy decisions are heavily dependent on context and people engagement. This makes a clear and objective argument (from the recipient’s standpoint) crucial for the adoption of any proposal.
What are you most looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to my specific research project, and also to the “craft of government” group project, which is within the PP405 Public Policy Applications course.
What are you hoping to achieve/what are your main objectives whilst you at LSE SPP?
I am hoping to: obtain my degree by actively participating in every course; conduct specific research applied to Brazil on a relevant public policy issue; and exchange experiences and build on relationships with my colleagues.
What are your hopes/plans for your future after graduation?
I plan on returning to my job in Brazil, hopefully being able to apply concepts learned and new ideas and to make meaningful contributions.
Can you describe your SPP experience so far in 3 words?
Challenging. Exciting. Contemporary.
Fernando is happy to connect via LinkedIn.