Adrian Ionescu

A man wearing a checkered shirt looks at the camera.

BSc (Hons) Finance and Accounting

1. Tell us about yourself

My name is Adrian Ionescu, and I’m the Founder of Glow Empire, an online store specialising in perfumes, cosmetics, skincare, and beauty products. Alongside building my business, I’m also working towards my ACCA qualification. My career has been shaped by a passion for both finance and entrepreneurship, and Glow Empire has allowed me to bring together my skills in business strategy, digital marketing, and customer experience.

2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?

My fondest memory is the sense of community — meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures who broadened my perspective. Those relationships and experiences still inspire me today.

3. What has been your favourite job?
Launching Glow Empire has been my favourite role so far. It’s a challenge and a joy to build something from scratch, manage all aspects of the business, and see customers enjoying the products I’ve carefully sourced.

4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?
Transformative.

5. How did your time at ARU help you?

Studying at ARU gave me the confidence and skills to pursue bigger goals. The discipline of academic work prepared me for the demands of entrepreneurship and ongoing ACCA studies, while the supportive environment helped me develop resilience.

6. What did you love about your chosen course?
I appreciated the practical elements of my course and how the teaching connected theory to real-world application. It gave me a solid foundation to pursue both finance and entrepreneurial projects.

7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Don’t be afraid to start small and test your ideas. Whether you want to work in a company or build your own, the most important step is to start. The skills you’ve developed at ARU will carry you further than you expect.

8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
I wish I had realised earlier how valuable networking is. Building strong professional relationships can open doors and save years of trial and error.

9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?
I’ve been inspired by mentors and leaders I’ve worked with in finance roles, but also by successful entrepreneurs who built businesses online from the ground up. Their resilience and creativity encouraged me to take the leap with Glow Empire.

10. What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the process and don’t fear failure. Every setback teaches you something valuable and brings you closer to success.

11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
Outside of business and finance, I’m passionate about exploring the UK coastline with my family. Cornwall, in particular, has become a favourite spot for us.

12. What’s next?
My goal is to continue scaling Glow Empire, expanding our product lines, and growing our presence in the UK beauty and fragrance market. Alongside that, I’m focused on completing my ACCA qualification and further developing my expertise in finance and entrepreneurship.