UCL GBSH announces the appointment of MBA Health Programme Director

The world’s first business school dedicated to health, UCL’s Global Business School for Health (GBSH), has announced the appointment of Dr Oksana Gerwe, former Associate Head and MBA Director at Brunel Business School, as the new Director of the MBA Health programme.

At UCL GBSH, Dr Gerwe will bring a proven track record in academic leadership, programme development, accreditation, and research to advance healthcare leadership education and employability for MBA Health students. Gerwe will play a pivotal role in continuing to provide world-leading business education for students that will go on to tackle some of the biggest healthcare challenges of our time.

The MBA in Health is a one-year programme, which offers a case study-based, action-learning experience focused on applying business skills to healthcare management. Students work alongside industry, applying management skills first-hand as part of the Global Healthcare Challenge, which involves solving real-world health challenges in an international healthcare system.

As former Associate Head and MBA Director at Brunel Business School, Dr Gerwe has significant experience in incorporating cutting-edge technology and ensuring that students are well-prepared for evolving industry demands. In 2023, Dr Gerwe was recognised as the Most Efficient European Educational Leader of the Year by the Knowledge Review, a top international education magazine.

Dr Gerwe will focus on supporting students in their academic and personal development, preparing them for successful careers and impactful lives — helping graduates to become the world's most distinguished health sector leaders. In her new role, she will lead a talented team of colleagues, ensuring excellence in teaching and programme delivery — who will tutor and coach the next generation of healthcare leaders.

This next appointment is central to UCL GBSH’s growth ambitions, with the MBA Health being one of the many pioneering study routes on offer. As health now accounts for more than 10% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the demand for leaders focused on business and health has grown — and UCL GBSH has responded, launching its undergraduate health-focused Business and Management degree in September 2025.

Professor Nora Colton, Director at UCL GBSH, said: ‘We are thrilled to welcome Dr Oksana Gerwe to UCL GBSH. Her extensive experience in strategic management and programme development will be invaluable as we continue to expand our global presence. Dr Gerwe’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of healthcare education, and her focus on enhancing student outcomes aligns perfectly with our mission. I am confident she will make a significant impact as we work together to empower the next generation of healthcare leaders.’

Dr Oksana Gerwe, Director of MBA Health at UCL GBSH, said: ‘I am excited to join UCL GBSH at a time when healthcare leadership is more critical than ever. The global healthcare system is facing unprecedented challenges — from the aftermath of the pandemic to increasing demand, staffing shortages, and an ageing population. These issues require innovative solutions and talented leaders, and I believe UCL GBSH is uniquely positioned to develop the next generation of healthcare leaders. I look forward to working alongside the incredible team here to shape a new era of healthcare leadership education and contribute to improving global health outcomes.’