Meet Neal Carter, MBA candidate and Programme Director at Costain, as he shares about his experience studying the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA.
Why did you choose to study the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA?
I wanted to study major infrastructure delivery at UCL because it would help me to achieve my personal career mission: to hold executive leadership roles in major UK-based organisations delivering development of the built environment.
I have considered a number of other development programmes available to me, but these are typically generic or unsuited to my specific needs. This MBA at UCL is very specific to infrastructure – senior leadership in the context of technical requirements – and therefore very well aligned to my personal career development.
The broad and strong cadre of advisory panel members of this MBA who have shaped the programme will ensure the programme is practical and world-class. The course content will provide me the specific development in the context of major infrastructure delivery, not the broad experience of a traditional MBA.
Describe how you’ve been able to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve learned on the course to your current role?
The MBA has provided a really broad understanding of the underlying theoretical rationale for why we deliver major infrastructure in the way we do. For my current role this has enabled me to better express the approach of the megaproject governance framework and business case to my real world challenge, building a more robust and effective solution with stakeholder support.
What aspects of your studies have you enjoyed most, during your time on the MBA?
The teaching is a mix of academic lectures, practitioner experience and group exercises to test the theory and explore its application. These discussions have been energetic and, reflecting the makeup of the cohort, with really diverse perspectives on the same subject. This insight is incredibly beneficial and has given me new ideas and better understanding.
How do you foresee your MBA studies helping you as you move forward in your career?
I want to use the learning from the degree to lead enterprises with significant portfolios of major infrastructure projects. By increasing my competence across the spectrum of the curriculum, it will support my personal mission to hold executive leadership roles in major UK-based organisations delivering development of the built environment.
A unique offer of the MBA is a mentoring arrangement with current leaders of our profession – the very best. This is a great opportunity to learn directly from them on a 1-1 basis.
What advice would you give to those thinking about studying the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA at The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction?
I would advise speak to the UCL team about what you’re interested in and how the programme could support you. I’d also reach out to those already studying (best via LinkedIn) and senior members of your employer who would sponsor your attendance.