Jordan Garbutt

How did you hear about Leeds University Business School and why did you choose to study here? 

Once I had decided that I wanted to undertake an MBA I conducted a lot of research into the institutions that could deliver the course part-time. I had many options and was open to numerous ways of delivery including distance learning. What attracted me to Leeds University Business School was its structure of delivering modules in blocks, which suited my work commitments better than other delivery methods on offer. Its location was a factor given the business I work for is also based in Leeds. I was also attracted to the Business School due to its accolades, such as its ranking as the top Executive MBA course in the North of England, and its triple accreditation status as a stamp of quality and approval.

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here? 

After being with Prozone Sports for 10 years, my continued success in the area of business development led to a new job role as General Manager of the business. Having been a functional expert, I was aware that operating at board-level would introduce me to a wide range of new areas that would require a high level of experience and expertise. The Exec MBA’s broad range of business modules stood out to me as a way of building on my knowledge gaps, whilst actively putting theory into practice. 

Did you receive a scholarship to study here? If yes, why did you apply for the scholarship and why do you think you were successful? What did it mean to you to receive it and how did it help you? 

I received a part-scholarship (20%) to study my Executive MBA at Leeds. I decided to apply for the scholarship as initially my business was reluctant to pay the fees. After the scholarship had been awarded, I was much better equipped to showcase the business benefits that my MBA would bring. I was able to show that I had not taken their investment in me lightly and had worked to secure the best possible outcome and price for all concerned. 

What's the best part of your studies – what did you enjoy the most? 

The best part of my studies was applying practical learning and rationale to key business scenarios, and building frameworks for practical solutions. Working with like-minded peers who have exerience of similar business challenges allowed us to form a network and learn from each other from day one. This has certainly made me feel empowered to go back in to my business and speak with confidence, provide fresh insights and generate positive outcomes.

What are your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you’ve gained here have helped you in your career plans? In what way? 

My career aspiration is to lead a large sporting organisation and add value. Within my current role the skills gained from this course are the stepping stones I need to become an official director of the business. I believe the Executive MBA has helped me in my career aspirations in terms of both qualifications and practical skills. It has opened my eyes to an executive world outside of my current organisation, and given me confidence in knowing that I can succeed at a senior level across many industries with a wide range of transferrable skills.

Where are you currently working, and what is your role?

General Manager at Prozone Sports, a sports analysis company working predominantly with professional sports teams. I’m currently running the UK and Middle East business, responsible for its P&L.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your time studying at the Business School that you can tell us about? e.g. prizes, highest scores etc.  

I scored the highest mark in our strategy assignment which I specifically wrote about organisational culture. I felt particularly engaged with this topic having experienced two recent mergers. It’s a real topical issue within my business and I learned a great deal to help substantiate the importance our business needs to place on both strategy and culture.