From Code to Policy: Vladimir Makarov’s Path Toward AI and Financial Innovation
In a world where technology often advances faster than regulation, professionals who understand both technological systems and policy frameworks are increasingly valuable. Vladimir Makarov, a student in the Master’s Programme in Science, Technology and Innovation Management and Policy at HSE University, is developing exactly this kind of interdisciplinary profile.
Vladimir describes his background as “quite a hybrid.” He holds a double bachelor’s degree in Innovation Management and Digital Economy from the Moscow Aviation Institute, which included a semester abroad at the Beijing Institute of Technology. This experience allowed him to explore innovation and digital development from both Russian and international perspectives.
Currently, Vladimir is pursuing two master’s degrees simultaneously. Alongside the master’s degree in Science, Technology and Innovation Management and Policy (STI Master's programme) at ISSEK - HSE, he is completing a fully online degree in Digital Technologies in Management at another Russian university. “This mix allows me to approach innovation from two angles: the high-level policy perspective and the hands-on, operational side of digital tools and automation”, he explains.
Why the STI Programme?
For Vladimir, choosing the STI Master’s Programme at HSE University was a deliberate decision aligned with his broader interests. “I prefer to view the world through the lens of innovation — whether in finance, technology, or public policy,” he says. “Many programmes focus on only one area: either finance or IT. The STI Master's programme at HSE University is different because it encourages you to see the whole system.”
Vladimir also highlights how the programme connects with his interest in global technological development, particularly in areas such as BRICS cooperation, digital finance, and artificial intelligence. “For someone who thinks in systems rather than isolated tasks, this programme is extremely relevant,” he adds.
Expectations: From Analysis to Real-World Impact
Vladimir approaches his studies with clear and practical expectations. “First, I want to build a strong analytical toolkit for STI policy,” he explains. “I want to understand the indicators and evaluation methods that actually show whether a policy instrument works.”
Another priority for him is exposure to real institutions where innovation policy is implemented. “I’m interested in seeing how policy works in practice, not only in theory,” he says.
Equally important is the opportunity to study alongside an international group of students. “I expect my peers to challenge my views on Russia, BRICS, and China rather than simply confirm them,” he notes. “If by the end of the programme I can write a thesis that policymakers or technology companies actually want to use — rather than just formally approve — I’ll consider my time here well spent.”
Building a Foundation for Future Goals
For Vladimir, the master’s degree represents both an intellectual foundation and an important step toward his future academic plans. “It acts as a strong signal to employers, combining international-level education with the HSE brand,” he says. At the same time, he sees the programme as preparation for further academic work, potentially through the LSE-Fudan Double Degree in the Global Political Economy of China and Europe or a PhD track.
"To work with complex ecosystems such as the EU, China, or BRICS financial systems, you need more than interesting ideas,” he explains. “You need to understand standards, regulations, and bureaucratic processes. This programme helps develop the language needed to work in those environments.”
Key Areas of Learning
During his studies, Vladimir hopes to focus on three main areas. The first is policy analytics, learning how to evaluate whether regulations and policy instruments are effective. The second is the governance of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and cross-border payment systems, where technological development is often moving faster than regulation. Finally, he aims to strengthen his strategic communication skills. “I want to be able to present and defend complex proposals in front of regulators or investors,” he explains, “whether in Moscow, Beijing, or Brussels.”
From AI Projects to Larger Innovation Initiatives
Alongside his studies, Vladimir is already involved in practical technological work. He is currently developing an AI agent designed to automate internal support processes and improve search functions on his company’s website. “My immediate goal is to scale this technology and take responsibility for digital transformation projects within the company,” he says.
Looking further ahead, he hopes to build a venture focused on industrial AI solutions, expanding from internal corporate tools to larger projects that could also involve the public sector. “Russia has identified artificial intelligence as a national priority,” he notes. “I want to contribute by developing real systems, not just discussing them.”
Ultimately, Vladimir aims to work at the intersection of technology and policy. “I would like to become someone who combines technical expertise with policy understanding to help build competitive AI and financial systems internationally, particularly within the BRICS framework.”
Moscow as a “Living Laboratory”
For Vladimir, studying in Moscow also provides an important learning environment. “Moscow is a kind of living laboratory,” he says. “You can see the coexistence of Soviet industrial legacy, rapidly evolving capitalism, and very advanced digital services in the same city.”
The international composition of the programme also plays an important role in his experience. “Discussing ideas with classmates from China, Europe, or Latin America helps test different perspectives,” he explains. “That kind of exchange is essential if you want to work in global innovation environments.”
A Personal Principle
Vladimir summarizes his approach with a simple personal motto: “Be useful and slightly unexpected.”
“I like to bring ideas that are not always conventional — whether it’s about BRICS financial platforms or unusual educational paths — but they should always have practical value,” he explains.
He believes the current moment offers unique opportunities for people able to work across disciplines and borders. “There is a window of time when individuals who understand systems and international dynamics can influence how future technological and financial structures are built,” he says. “I intend to make the most of that opportunity.”
