Executive Diploma in Organisational Change participant, Helena Brennan, shares her experience on the programme.

Please can you introduce yourself, tell us about your career and talk about the Executive Diploma you chose to study?

I am a lead business change manager within Network Rail’s Rail Investment Centre of Excellence with over 20 years’ experience of working on change initiatives. I chose to study the Executive Diploma in Organisational Change.

Why were you interested in this specific programme? What made it stand out? Why did you choose to study at WBS?  

I was coming to the end of a challenging programme and moving to a new department, so I wanted to do something new and challenge myself.  I saw it as an opportunity to gain new ideas and perspectives, and I felt confident that Warwick Business School would provide a high-quality experience.

What did you enjoy the most about the programme? Do you have any personal highlights?

I very much enjoyed meeting other people from a wide range of not for profit and commercial organisations, and having time out to gain new ideas and feel revitalised. I gained ideas that I have been able to work on immediately and the project is an opportunity to both help myself and Network Rail.

What challenges in your role has this programme helped with or will help to address?

Network Rail is going through an enormous amount of disruption, and I have gained insights into how other organisations have adapted, becoming more agile and successful.  I have a newfound interest in how organisations adopt a growth mindset and an enhanced vocabulary with which to articulate ideas.

Can you tell us about the people you met on the course, the Diploma cohort and the friendships/networks you have made from the course?

I have been surprised about how well the group has connected and stayed in touch. Despite having to attend two modules virtually, I have expanded my network and enjoy the connections I have made.

How is the course taught/structured? Coursework, lectures, group work etc. And how did you find balancing other commitments and work, alongside studying the course?

It can be difficult balancing work and home commitments alongside studying and it is quite daunting returning to essay writing.  It is a nice feeling to be developing my writing and analytical skills in an academic setting many years after my last experience of university.

How do you think this course will benefit you in your future career?

I think I can better articulate what I do and have new ideas to implement and share with others. I have a stronger sense of professional identity having joined a network of organisational change experts and practitioners.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for this programme? Any advice you would share?

I would say that it’s never the right time to commit to extra study. If it’s been in the back of your mind for a while, just do it, it’s well worth the effort. You and your organisation will benefit greatly!

Find out more about our Executive Diplomas.