SOAR - Oxbridge Chapter
Oxbridge (spanning Oxford and Cambridge in the United Kingdom) became part of the SOAR family in August 2014. The first Armenian community in Britain was formed in Manchester in the 19th century. Comprised of textile traders, small manufacturers and retailers, the first Armenian Church was opened in 1870. The Armenian population in Great Britain is approximately 18,000, living primarily in London and Manchester. There is a growing Armenian population in Oxford and Cambridge.
The Cambridge University Armenian Society [CUARMS] promotes Armenian culture and Armenian Language in Cambridge, assists students of Armenian origin in pursuing their academic and professional endeavours at the University of Cambridge, creates social network for students of Armenian origin and for those with connections or interest in Armenia, and facilitates interaction and dialogue between members of the university who are interested in Armenia. The Oxford University Armenian Society (OUAS) at the University of Oxford cultivates an understanding and appreciation of Armenian culture, heritage and history through cultural, educational, and social activities.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Alek Joulfaian
President
Alek Joulfaian holds a Master of Science in International Business Management & Finance from Oxford Brookes University, where he graduated with Distinction (GPA: 4/4). He also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Haigazian University, the only Armenian University in the Diaspora located in Beirut, Lebanon.
With a diverse professional background spanning multiple industries, Alek has gained extensive experience in account management, financial analysis, risk management, and customer service. Currently serving as an Account Managerin the Technology & Operations Division at Oxford University Press, along with his team, he oversees a portfolio of over 200 credit-managed accounts, supporting a £10 million monthly invoiced sales pipeline while ensuring regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction. His Job involves enabling English Language Teaching all over the globe through selling English Language teaching materials to distributors, schools, and education ministries. Prior to this role, Alek worked at Retail Banking, where he handled complex financial transactions, fraud investigations, and risk mitigation strategies. His previous experience also includes working in luxury retail with Thom Browne, Versace, Christian Dior, and Montblanc, where he honed his client relationship management and sales skills. Additionally, he has gained exposure to corporate banking and financial markets through internships at Bank BEMO and The Primes Group, where he conducted market research and financial risk assessments.
Beyond his professional career, Alek is deeply committed to humanitarian efforts. As the President of the SOAR Oxbridge Chapter, he will be leading initiatives aimed at supporting orphaned Armenian children worldwide, ensuring they receive access to education and essential resources through cultural programs. His leadership within SOAR is driven by a passion for making a tangible impact in the Armenian community and beyond.
Outside of work, Alek enjoys traveling, visiting art exhibitions, and drawing, combining his appreciation for culture and creativity with his professional pursuits.