Juliette
Looker

Explore our Executive MBA: Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)

What motivated you to pursue an MBA, and why did you chose Nottingham Business School?

I believed that the MBA would provide access to a wealth of new skills, ideas, concepts, and opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Earning this qualification would represent a testament to my capabilities and serve as a strong foundation to enhance my future career prospects. I chose the NBS as it offered on campus teaching and therefore a real opportunity to connect.

How has the MBA programme at Nottingham Business School impacted your career progression and personal growth?

The MBA programme has, above all, instilled in me the confidence to embrace new challenges and roles within my organisation. It has equipped me with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively integrate both the strategic and operational dimensions of general management within the NHS.

What is your current job title and responsibilities?

Deputy General Manager, Neonatal Services

• Responsible for the day-to-day operational leadership of Neonatal Services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, overseeing the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) at both the Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) and City Hospital sites
• Providing strategic leadership for the service, encompassing long-term planning, financial management, and governance to ensure high-quality care and sustainable operations
• Operational lead for the Maternity and Neonatal Programme, driving the development and delivery of a new NICU at the QMC.

Can you describe a key project or accomplishment in your current role that your MBA helped you achieve?

The MBA provided me with the knowledge and skills to serve as the operational lead for the Maternity and Neonatal Redesign Programme, overseeing the creation of a state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) which opened at the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham in December 2024.

What aspects of the NBS MBA programme did you find the most valuable?

The teaching team's knowledge and approach to integrating theory with practical application throughout each module enhanced my strategic thinking. The consultancy projects were transformative, offering first-hand exposure to different business environments and cultures. While the diversity within the cohort enriched discussions, providing unique perspectives and building a trusted network.

Were there any specific skills or knowledge areas from the MBA that have been particularly useful in your career?

Yes, several specific skills and knowledge areas from the MBA have been particularly valuable in my career:

• Strategic Thinking: The ability to analyse complex situations, develop long-term strategies, and align them with organisational goals has been instrumental in driving impactful projects within the NHS
• Leadership and Change Management: Understanding the principles of leading teams and managing change has been crucial, especially in overseeing the Maternity and Neonatal Redesign Programme
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Assignments and consultancy projects during the MBA honed my ability to evaluate options, mitigate risks, and implement solutions in dynamic situations

What advice would you give to a prospective student considering the programme?

Just do it!

What was your favourite part about MBA reconnect?

My favourite part of the MBA reconnect was the opportunity to engage with my network of alumni and peers, sharing experiences and insights from various industries. It was inspiring to hear about the different paths people have taken post-MBA and to see how the program has shaped their careers. The event also provided a platform to refresh and apply key learnings from the MBA.