¹û¶³´«Ã½

Sebnem Tugce Pala

MA International Political Economy, 2011

Based in:

San Francisco Bay Area, California

Founder and Managing Partner, STP Advisory

Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.

STP Advisory is a strategic advisory firm that helps climate tech, AI, deep tech, SaaS, logistics, and mobility companies navigate growth through capital strategy, fundraising, market expansion, strategic partnerships, and public funding initiatives. In this role, I work closely with founders, investors, corporations, and public-sector stakeholders to help companies scale, enter new markets, secure financing, and build sustainable growth strategies. Our team has supported companies in raising significant equity and venture debt financing, securing non-dilutive funding, and expanding across multiple international markets.

What attracted me to this work is the opportunity to operate at the intersection of innovation, capital, and impact. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting companies that address complex challenges in areas such as climate, transportation, energy, and emerging technologies. I enjoy helping founders turn ambitious ideas into scalable businesses while building meaningful partnerships across the private and public sectors. Founding STP Advisory allowed me to combine my experience in policy, business development, fundraising, and international market expansion into a platform that directly supports entrepreneurs and accelerates the adoption of transformative technologies.

What are the key skills you learnt at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ that have helped you with your career to date?

My time at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ helped me develop a combination of analytical, strategic, and cross-cultural skills that have been instrumental throughout my career. ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s international environment exposed me to diverse perspectives and ways of thinking, which strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders from different backgrounds and industries.

One of the most valuable skills I gained was critical thinking. The academic rigor of the programme encouraged me to analyse complex challenges from multiple angles, evaluate evidence objectively, and develop practical solutions – skills that I use regularly when advising companies on growth strategy, fundraising, market expansion, and partnership development.

¹û¶³´«Ã½ also helped me build strong research and communication skills. Learning how to synthesise large amounts of information, distil key insights, and present recommendations clearly has been essential in my work with founders, investors, corporations, and public-sector organisations.

In addition, the University fostered an entrepreneurial and globally minded approach to problem-solving. Working with classmates and faculty from around the world enhanced my adaptability, cultural awareness, and ability to navigate international business environments. These skills have been particularly valuable in my role as Founder and Managing Partner of STP Advisory, where I support companies operating across multiple markets and sectors.

Overall, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ provided a strong foundation in analytical thinking, communication, leadership, and global collaboration – capabilities that continue to shape my professional journey and contribute to my success today.

Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at ¹û¶³´«Ã½?

When I chose to study at ¹û¶³´«Ã½, I didn’t have a single, clearly defined career path in mind. What I did know was that I wanted a career with an international dimension, where I could work across sectors, and contribute to solving complex economic and societal challenges.

¹û¶³´«Ã½ appealed to me because of its strong academic reputation, global outlook, and diverse student community. I was particularly interested in developing a broad set of analytical, strategic, and leadership skills that would give me the flexibility to pursue different opportunities as my interests evolved.

Over time, my career naturally progressed toward the intersection of public policy, innovation, entrepreneurship, and business strategy. The experiences and perspectives I gained at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ helped me remain open to new opportunities and equipped me with the adaptability needed to navigate a career that has spanned both the public and private sectors. Today, as the Founder and Managing Partner of STP Advisory, I work with emerging technology and climate-focused companies, investors, and public-sector stakeholders – a path that was not fully defined when I began my studies but was shaped by the foundation and global perspective I developed at ¹û¶³´«Ã½.

What top tips do you have for ¹û¶³´«Ã½ graduates who would like to work in your sector?

For ¹û¶³´«Ã½ graduates interested in working at the intersection of venture capital, entrepreneurship, innovation, climate technology, and strategic advisory, my first recommendation is to focus on building a strong foundation in problem-solving and relationship-building. Technical knowledge is important, but the ability to understand complex challenges, communicate effectively, and build trust with founders, investors, and stakeholders is often what creates long-term success.

Second, seek opportunities to gain hands-on experience as early as possible. Whether through internships, startup projects, accelerators, research initiatives, or consulting assignments, practical exposure will help you understand how businesses operate and how decisions are made in fast-moving environments.

Third, stay curious and develop a multidisciplinary perspective. Many of the most exciting opportunities today sit at the intersection of technology, policy, finance, and sustainability. Understanding how these areas connect will make you a more valuable contributor and advisor.

Networking is also critical. Build genuine relationships with people across your industry, attend events, engage with alumni networks, and don't hesitate to reach out to professionals whose work you admire. Many career opportunities emerge through conversations and connections rather than formal job applications.

Finally, be open to non-linear career paths. Some of the most rewarding opportunities may not fit a traditional trajectory. My own career has included roles across public policy, business development, fundraising, mobility, climate technology, and strategic advisory. Each experience provided skills and perspectives that became valuable in future roles. Focus on continuous learning, remain adaptable, and look for opportunities where you can create meaningful impact while continuing to grow professionally.

The pace of innovation is accelerating across sectors, particularly in climate technology, artificial intelligence, mobility, and energy. Graduates who combine analytical skills, entrepreneurial thinking, strong communication abilities, and a willingness to learn will be well positioned to thrive in these industries.