Case Study - Jo Marchant

 

 Having already done an MBA, why did you choose to take the Certificate in Leadership programme?

‘I was given a promotion just over a year ago, and felt that I needed some formal leadership training to make an effective transition from my previous role as a manager to my new role as a leader. When I saw an online advertisement for a competition at Henley for a scholarship on the programme, I decided to apply. Although I didn’t win the full scholarship, I was offered a part scholarship, which I was very pleased to accept.’

What have been the highlights of the programme so far?

‘Having been on the programme for a year, it has already far exceeded my expectations.I’ve worked in education for 7 years and been on lots of courses, but this really is at the cutting edge of learning development and has provided me with opportunities I would never havehad elsewhere.

‘The range of people on the programme is so diverse, and it’s been really useful for me to mix with leaders from other sectors. I’ve been especially inspired by their willingness to share their ideas and experience and I feel I’ve been empowered by that, both personally and professionally.

‘The tutors have been great and I’ve been given developmental opportunities that I wouldn’t normally be able to experience. For example, one of the highlights has been being put through my paces by a professional journalist at a mock press interview and then being given feedback on how I performed. I’ve also been encouraged to try out different presentation styles which has taken me out of my comfort zone but the tutors and other programme members havebeen such a supportive audience and the feedback has been very constructive for me.’

So what impact has it had, on both you and on the organisation?

‘I’m much more confident in my role as a leader now in addressing the leadership challengeswith which I’m faced. The course requirement to formulate my own individual leadershipdevelopment plan has played a pivotal part in that.

‘The assignments on the programme have helped me to implement more effective strategies in my organisation, and the Action Learning problem solving strategy that I’ve learnt on the course is something that I’ve found very useful both at work and personally.’

How does the Certificate in Leadership compare to the MBA you previously completed?

‘The MBA was about management; this programme is very definitely about leadership, andI haven’t seen much overlap between them. The Certificate in Leadership complements the MBA and I’d encourage any MBA graduate to think about doing it.’ 

What advice would you give to anyone considering the Henley Certificate in Leadership programme?

‘There’s currently no course like this, and studying at Henley takes you away from your dayjob, enhancing your ability to think and reflect. There are top class tutors who deliver relevant, pertinent content, and the support is second to none. Add to that the beautiful location, and I can honestly say that this is the best learning experience I’ve ever had.’

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