MBA Student Spotlight: Jamie Phillips

Why did you choose to study the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA? 

From my research and reading the MBA course overview, I understood how well it was formulated with the support of many successful leaders and CEOs, to address industry needs, trends, opportunities and challenges; blending academic rigour with learning from real major infrastructure delivery which I was drawn to.  

The block structure for in-person teaching also helped with planning my studies around work and family commitments, minimising travel and time away. 

I could see that this MBA would enable me to develop my career and add more value to the major infrastructure projects I’m involved with, through the learning, leadership skills and network established on the course. 

Describe how you have been able to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt on the course to your current role? 

I currently work for High Speed Two (HS2) Ltd as a Senior Project Manager, (Main Works Civils), and the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA has given me perspective and learning from a breadth of global major infrastructure projects through case studies, taught classes and conversations with leaders of these projects.  

It has helped me take a more strategic approach, drawing on a much stronger and relevant network, mentorship, academic data and leadership tools to make better solutions faster, for the benefit of my team and the project, and sharing relevant learning.  

It has also inspired me to move roles to take on a new challenge during peak construction, to help the project, and focus development on my revaluated career goals. 

Which aspects of your studies have you enjoyed most, during your time on the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA? 

The highlight for me has been learning from a broad spectrum of inspirational, insightful leaders, and professionals from the industry in the classroom, through the conference, conversations, and mentorship – these are the people supporting the course and those in my course cohort. This is built upon by the case-studies and introduction to UCL levels of academic rigour and integrity. 

The block structure for in-person learning enables a diverse international cohort which I really value being a part of. 
 

How do you foresee your MBA studies helping you as you move forward in your career? 

This MBA will give me the means to perform better as a leader, add more value to my teams and projects, plan my career more effectively, and engage with a stronger network to support one another. I’m sure this will have a positive impact on my career trajectory but am aware it is my responsibility to work and improve on this also. 
 

What has been your experience of the teaching and level of support on this MBA course? 

The course is expertly planned and led by Professor Juliano Denicol, from the format to the modules, and timing to bring international cohorts and industry leaders together. The teaching across modules has been to a very high standard; facilitating a good balance between the academic aspects, case studies and industry learning, enabling and encouraging productive discussions and challenge around key topics.  

What advice would you give to those thinking about studying the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA? 

If you are passionate about leadership and major infrastructure delivery and can make the commitment, seize the opportunity to undertake this MBA. I can honestly say the course has exceeded my expectations in every facet, and personally I can’t recommend it any more highly.  
 
If you have any questions, reach out to Juliano at UCL or a member of one of the past cohorts for their perspective.