How long you’ve taught here, what led to you becoming an academic and getting into this role
Since 2016, I've been teaching at the University of Cumbria. My journey into academia began with a desire to improve working conditions and create happier, more positive workplaces for both individuals and organisations. This passion led me to pursue a career in academia and focus my PhD studies on Human Resource Management (HRM), particularly on career development.
Throughout my academic journey, I've been dedicated to understanding HRM and its connection to people's careers. I aim to help organisations support their employees in achieving their goals and finding happiness in their work.
Teaching at the university allows me to share knowledge, insights, and engage in meaningful discussions with students, helping them grow and develop. It's a privilege to inspire and empower future professionals to positively impact the working world.
Overall, my academic journey has been fuelled by a passion for improving working conditions and fostering happier, more fulfilling work environments for individuals and organisations.
If your background isn’t exclusively academia, what industry experience do you have and how did you transition to academia?
I have a diverse background in the public sector, primarily within Human Resources, where I've held various roles. My experience in the public sector provided me with valuable insights into organisational dynamics and the challenges faced by employees.
The transition to academia occurred when I recognised the potential to leverage my expertise to help individuals find sustainable and happier careers through research. My desire to make a broader impact led me to pursue opportunities in academia, where I could delve into the issues surrounding career development and career sustainability and contribute to solutions through research and education. This transition allowed me to combine my practical experience with academic pursuits, enabling me to empower others to navigate their career paths effectively and sustainably.
What research and/or successes have you done that you’d like to share with prospective students?
In my journey through academia, I've had the privilege of collaborating on several research projects, each exploring important aspects of human experience and organisational dynamics. Together with various colleagues, we explored how individuals navigate and empower themselves during challenging times, such as the unprecedented circumstances brought about by a pandemic. We also sought to understand how to foster both a strong entrepreneurial spirit and overall well-being among university students, regardless of cultural background. One of our endeavours led us to examine the relationship between Human Resource Management practices and intelligent career development within the public sector.
Additionally, I have been involved in examining the impact of industrial placement years on students' skill development over time. Aiming to shed light on how these experiences shape the competencies and capabilities of future professionals.
In parallel, we investigated the multifaceted factors influencing student well-being within the higher education setting. Our aim was to understand the challenges students face and identify strategies to support their holistic development and overall happiness.
These research endeavours, along with numerous opportunities to present our findings at conferences and contribute book chapters to academic publications, underscore my commitment to understanding the intricate interplay between career development, well-being, and organisational dynamics. As prospective students, you can expect to join me in this journey of exploration and discovery, engaging in research that not only addresses pressing societal issues but also contributes to positive change in both academic and professional spheres.
What’s your favourite part of this module (along lines of working with students)?
I primarily teach modules related to Human Resource Management (HRM) and Organisational Behaviour (OB). One of my favourite aspects of these modules is engaging in discussions with students and exchanging ideas. I find that these interactions not only enrich the learning experience but also foster a collaborative environment where everyone's perspectives are valued. It's incredibly rewarding to see students actively participate in class discussions, sharing their insights and challenging each other's viewpoints. This dynamic exchange of ideas not only enhances understanding but also promotes critical thinking and deeper engagement with the course material.
Any extra-curricular / out of classroom activities you’d like to amplify?
What sets our course apart is our commitment to fostering independent learners and cultivating vibrant debate within the classroom. Beyond traditional lectures, we offer a range of extracurricular activities designed to enrich students' educational experience.
One key aspect is our strong links with local businesses. We actively collaborate with these organisations to provide students with real-world insights and opportunities for practical learning. Through guest lectures, students gain valuable perspectives from professionals in the field, helping them to bridge theory with practice and develop essential skills for their future careers.
Moreover, our emphasis on debate and discussion creates a dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to voice their opinions, challenge conventional thinking, and engage in meaningful dialogue. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also fosters critical thinking and analytical skills.
What advice would you give to students considering studying on this course?
For students considering studying on our business and management course, I would offer the following advice:
Take the time to explore the different aspects of business management to identify what areas resonate with you the most. Seize every opportunity to engage with the material beyond the classroom. This could involve participating in extracurricular activities, networking with industry professionals, or undertaking internships. Being proactive in your learning journey will enhance your understanding and skill development. Business management is often about working collaboratively with others. Take advantage of group projects and discussions to learn from your peers, share ideas, and develop teamwork skills. Don't hesitate to reach out to your lecturers, tutors, or support services if you encounter challenges or need guidance. We're here to help you succeed and navigate through any difficulties you may face and finally keep an open mind and stay curious about the ever-changing world of business. Continuously seek out new knowledge, trends, and developments in the field to stay ahead of the curve.
What’s your favourite thing about teaching at Cumbria?
My favourite part about teaching at Cumbria is my colleagues. They make work fun and enjoyable with their energy and humour. Working with them creates a great atmosphere that makes teaching here special.