Nick
Martin

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

I wanted to gain a wider understanding of business outside of my area of technical expertise, get guidance on the best literature and theories on leadership, and meet people from outside of my business category to gain insight into other ways of working. NTU offers an excellent program, including an international element.

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

Without a doubt, the MBA has enabled me to obtain a C-suite executive role. Being able to ask questions on all aspects of business operations confidently has offered me the opportunity to continue leading an area of technical expertise while understanding the wider business context of decisions.

What are your current job title and responsibilities?

I am the Chief Food Safety and Quality Officer for Fox’s Burton’s Companies (FBC) – one of the largest biscuit manufacturers in the UK.

In addition to sitting on the executive board, setting the strategic direction for the business, and presenting business performance to the owners, I lead the Food Safety and Quality Functions for eight manufacturing sites, ensuring that all of our biscuits are of the highest quality, and our facilities operate to the best standards.

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

As I have only been in my current role a few weeks, there are not any relevant projects – although FBC are about to take over the operation of an overseas company, and I have been asked to lead the food safety and quality aspects.

In the role I have just finished, I undertook a business research project to assess the potential for entry into the plant-based milk alternatives market. The project outcome was followed by the organisation and soon after, the market dynamics proved that this was the correct decision.

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

International exposure and consideration of the ways of working in other countries were extremely helpful. The Director's perspective module and access to the great experience of the tutors were also useful for me.

However, overall, the most valuable aspect was the interaction with my fellow students, forging links and relationships that I hope will last a long time.

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

Considering the level of the role I have moved into, the Financial module has been really useful in enabling me to understand and consequently challenge business decisions with a level of authority.

How has the network you built at NBS influenced your career or professional opportunities?

Keeping in contact with my cohort has shown the bravery of several individuals to follow a different career path and have confidence that this is the right decision. This was a significant influence on my decision to take on a new role at a much higher level of authority.

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

1. Ensure that you are aware of the workload and have the time among work and family commitments – but know that it is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have.
2. Immerse yourself fully, and commit to the program and your fellow students. It will prove a life-affirming experience.