Why did you choose a Degree Apprenticeship?

I have wanted to do an MBA for a long time and had been waiting for the right time to do it. I initially thought that I probably needed to have a decade more experience to do an MBA, but after a little encouragement from both my boss and my mentor, I decided to get the ball rolling! After researching a few options, I decided that the MBA Degree Apprenticeship was a fantastic option for me. The funding available meant that I could afford to do it without a big financial cost to me or my company – and it was at an AMBA accredited Business School. The course itself also suits me as I am applying the knowledge I am learning as I progress through the course, rather than working on case studies of other organisations. 

Looking back over your time so far, how have you found the whole experience?

As a whole, the MBA has been great so far. Some weeks are tougher than others, especially when work or personal life get busy too. I have genuinely learnt so much already and have been able to apply my knowledge to my organisation. 

What are you enjoying the most?

I’m really enjoying the challenge of learning something completely new, researching and critiquing the topic and then applying it to my work. I have been really proud of myself so far. Doing well on the MBA course has given me a lot of confidence in my abilities! 

What have you found challenging?

At first, I found online learning more challenging. I initially chose to study at Manchester Met, so that I could benefit from attending face-to-face lectures. However, after 4 modules, I am used to the format and the teaching staff have been great and have managed to successfully transition to remote teaching. 

How do you find balancing work and study?

Very much a balancing act! My work has become increasingly busy throughout the duration of the course as I have started a new job within the same company. The business has been very supportive of my studies, so it’s more a pressure I put on myself to make sure I can keep all of the plates spinning to the best of my abilities! This has meant that I spend time in the evenings or weekends making sure I can fit everything in – but I have found it manageable. 

How have you found the teaching style at Manchester Met?

The teaching staff are all very passionate about what they do – which comes across in the way they teach. They have been great with giving advice on assignments and have always been happy to set up one-on-one calls to discuss ideas. 

How are you hoping a Degree Apprenticeship will support your career progression?

I am hoping that the MBA Degree Apprenticeship will fast-track my career progression, whilst also giving me a broad knowledge base and high business acumen. My working experience has largely been within Sales & Operations, but I will come away from the course having worked on Strategic Marketing, Finance & Accounting and Global Economics assignments too. The assignments demonstrate that I can critically discuss academic theory, as well as apply this knowledge in a real-life business scenario. This has been a great way for me to add value to my organisation as well as gain invaluable knowledge and experience for my future career. 

How has your role changed over the four years you have been with the NCC Group?

I started working for the NCC Group four years ago as a Sales Manager. In my time here I have progressed through managing multiple Sales and Operations teams, before setting up a global Customer Success function. Since starting my MBA I have successfully interviewed for a promotion within the organisation and have recently embarked on my new role as Head of Sales Enablement. This leadership role will allow me to utilise all of the skills I am learning on the MBA and contribute across the wider organisation. 

How have you found the support from the University over your time on the programme?

The University has been hugely supportive, and I’ve enjoyed the regular check-ins with my study skills tutor. The additional resources have been great, especially the sessions with an Executive Business Coach. I’ve used these sessions to discuss everything from imposter syndrome on the impact of COVID-19 on the UK economy.

Would you recommend a Degree Apprenticeship?

Yes! The Degree Apprenticeship programme has been great and something I know I will be hugely proud of once I have completed it.