INTERVIEW WITH THE DEAN
The management education sector is truly international, but do you believe there are specific challenges that UK-based business schools are facing? “UK business schools are undoubtedly facing specific challenges, including the changes to visa policies affecting international student recruitment. Despite these hurdles, we still possess significant strengths and opportunities. We continue to uphold high standards in education and research, we benefit from a commitment to freedom of speech and our dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion remains strong. “While it’s important to be realistic about the challenges, there is room for optimism. Through industry collaboration, international partnerships and maintaining excellence and innovation, the UK can remain a key player on the global stage.” With the ongoing geopolitical unrest around the world and socio-economic uncertainty, do you believe there
we need policies that accommodate the unique challenges women face, including those experienced during menopause. “We can also go beyond these interventions. For instance, why don’t we encourage more girls and young women to think about an academic career? Moreover, we could consider helping mature women transition into academia after a career in the corporate world, as I did. “It’s also important to address the impact of confidence and cultural perceptions on the career progression of female academics. For example, there is a pressing need to challenge and transform the entrenched perceptions of female versus male research.” The impact of AI and other generative algorithms on business school education is well documented – how do you seek to incorporate it into your curriculum? “There is no ignoring the rise of AI and generative technologies. Our network
is still room for optimism about the future of the business school sector? “Yes, there is always room for optimism. Our world is experiencing significant geopolitical unrest, the escalating climate crisis and deep socio-economic uncertainty. These are undoubtedly formidable challenges, but we can also choose to see them as powerful catalysts –
of over 300 employers and corporate partners gives us invaluable, real- time insights. And the message coming through from them, loud and clear, is the urgent demand for sophisticated digital and AI skills across the workforce. “This presents us with a dual imperative: firstly, how we integrate these tools into our curriculum
Henley’s Greenlands campus on the banks of the River Thames offers a highly inspiring environment in which to study
to get students not just AI-aware, but ‘AI-plus ready’. Then, secondly, how we empower our academic community to harness AI for the benefit of students and their scholarly work. “We want our academics to feel supported and confident about this. That’s why we’ve initiated a series of engaging seminars and workshops, open to all our staff, exploring the possibilities of AI. At the same time, our World of Work Institute has initiated a new research stream focusing on automation and AI to drive crucial research into AI’s impact on the workforce, future skills and business operations. “For today’s leaders, navigating this AI-driven world demands far more than just technical proficiency. It requires sharp critical thinking about the ethical dilemmas, the strategic opportunities and the operational shifts that these new technologies herald. I think it also requires a massive dose of empathy. Some suggest that the ascent of machines allows us to lean more fully into what it is to be human – I think there is something in that. “This is certainly a pivotal moment and we are committed to leading the way in shaping future-ready leaders who can confidently and ethically unlock the significant opportunities these technologies present.”
opportunities for us to innovate, to lead and to redefine what impactful business can be. Now, more than ever, the world needs leaders and professionals equipped to steer their organisations with both wisdom and courage through turbulent waters – and it’s our job to create them. “I’m proud to be part of an institution that is deeply committed to being part of that solution. For instance, our MSc in Climate Change, Sustainable Business and Green Finance programme combines Henley’s renowned expertise in finance with world-leading climate science from our parent institution, the University of Reading, which is at the forefront globally in climate change research. This synergy means we’re equipping students to help businesses strategically prepare for and adapt to the realities of climate change. “But our commitment to sustainability isn’t confined to a single programme. It is deeply embedded across our MBA course and throughout our wider curriculum. This isn’t simply about teaching green business practices; it’s about fostering a profound understanding of what a human-centric and just transition truly entails. We are dedicated to nurturing a community of changemakers, fuelled by engaged and purpose- driven research, to shape a more sustainable and just world.”
Ambition • ISSUE 3 • 2025 15
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