The transition from operational leadership to executive decision-making requires more than just experience – it demands a fundamental shift in perspective and approach. The Bath Executive MBA at the University of Bath School of Management catalyses this transformation through hands-on engagement with real business challenges. The programme’s flexible structure combines on-campus learning with online components, enabling participants to balance their studies with professional commitments.
Under the leadership of Dr Jane Ellis-Brush, Director of Teaching for MBA programmes, the Bath team conducted a comprehensive 360-degree review examining what employers, employees and entrepreneurs seek in great leadership, and how an Executive MBA can foster professional growth.
“Industry insights emphasised a need for leaders able to navigate the increasing complexity of the business landscape, a comprehensive understanding of business operations, and the confidence to be innovative and creative when leading organisations,” explains Dr Jane Ellis-Brush.
“The way we structure learning at Bath is deliberately challenging,” she continues. “We’re not just teaching theory – we’re asking our participants to apply their knowledge to complex business situations, often working with organisations facing real strategic challenges.”
This emphasis on practical application resonates with participants who come from diverse industry backgrounds.
“The MBA gave me the opportunity to lift myself up as an individual and look at business with more strategic context and thinking,” reflects Karl Fearnley, Executive MBA Alumni and Director of ISTAR and Cyber at Babcock International Group.
“I was able to see things from a C-Suite level and apply modules to board level. That was the step change in my career that I wanted and needed.”
Learning through real business challenges
The programme’s newly enhanced curriculum moves beyond traditional academic silos to mirror real business functions. Working with partner companies, participants tackle everything from market entry strategies to digital transformation initiatives.
“Our Executive MBA mirrors the interconnected reality of modern organisations to cultivate a big-picture mindset essential for great leadership,” explains Dr Jane Ellis-Brush.
“You’ll develop the self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience needed to inspire and guide others at the highest levels. Progress is tracked through innovative measurement tools that benchmark growth in leadership capabilities.”
For many participants, the growth in professional development marks a turning point in their leadership journey.
Anastasia Rodina, Product Manager at Dreamdaze Technology Inc, completed her Executive MBA in 2024: “Engaging in group projects and collaborating with classmates from difffffferent backgrounds has provided me with invaluable insights for tackling complex business challenges.”
Adapting to social and technological change
The business world is rapidly evolving, particularly in areas like sustainability and artificial intelligence (AI). Research shows business students are eager to understand these topics, especially executives aiming to future-proof their organisations.
”This thinking guided the evolution of the school’s Executive MBA programme,” explains Dr Ellis-Brush. “The learning experience incorporates developments in areas like AI, disruptive technology and sustainability to align with the realities of a world shaped by uncertainty, technological advancements, and societal change.”
Drawing on Bath’s tradition of academic excellence and research innovation, the programme prepares participants for next-level leadership challenges. The Bath Executive MBA creates space for experienced professionals to step back, reflect, and prepare for greater responsibilities. Through a combination of academic rigour and practical application, participants develop the strategic mindset needed for executive roles.
To learn more, join them at the Executive MBA Open House on Friday 14 March 10.30 AM. Click here to book your place.