From MBA to Academy Fellow: Alumni John Armstrong's Leadership Journey

MBA alum John Armstrong is Chief Executive at the British Pipeline Agency Ltd. (BPA) and was recently elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Here, John talks to us about how the MBA helped to shape his career.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to choose WBS for your MBA
“I was highly impressed by WBS's effective integration of technology in the delivery of its MBA programme, as well as its recognised expertise within the energy sector. The course offered a well-structured balance between remote learning for appropriate subjects and in-person sessions for practical, hands-on components. Furthermore, WBS presented a strong selection of topics, including field trips that closely aligned with my professional development needs. My visit to campus and meeting with David Elmes (Professor of Practice, Strategy & International Business Group) were particularly influential; his demonstrated passion and deep knowledge of the subject made a significant impact on my decision.”

Can you describe your career path since graduating?
“When I began my MBA, I was an engineering manager at a power station. Since then, I've held roles in engineering safety, operations, construction—including expanding district heating in the UK—and more recently, managed a joint venture business in BPA. The MBA provided valuable skills in organisational design, finance, operations, and strategy at each stage of my career. Alongside my main roles, I’ve also authored books on energy, aiming to offer balanced perspectives on the energy transition. My MBA experience enhanced my ability to question and challenge assumptions, which I apply to both my work and side quests like the book!”

What does your current role involve?
“I lead a team responsible for the secure transport of liquid fuel across the UK, supplying terminals and airports via a pipeline network. BPA plays a critical role in supporting aviation and road networks, while also driving the energy transition by distributing alternative fuels like HVO and SAF. My role combines operational safety, staying close to frontline teams, with strategic collaboration to meet evolving stakeholder needs and prepare our people and assets to ensure success over the next five decades.”

Congratulations on being elected a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering! Can you tell us what this recognition means to you and how it reflects your journey as both an engineer and a business leader?
“The academy fellowship is a real honour. It’s a group of engineers on a mission to use the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and create an inclusive economy that works for everyone – what a fantastic group to join! Throughout my journey as an engineer I’ve been supported by organisations like the Royal Academy of Engineering, who gave me opportunities and confidence to do things I probably wouldn’t have dreamed were possible without them – funding from the academy helped me study at Melbourne University and to travel to see how engineering is done around the world, including in Mexico and Italy. It’s some of these foundational experiences which led me to realising how broad a career I could have, including studying for an MBA and working in so many varied roles. As an engineer and business leader it’s now a genuine privilege to be able to join the fellowship and to support them on their mission!”

Are there any specific skills or knowledge you gained during your time at WBS that have been particularly valuable?
“One of the most valuable skills I acquired was the ability to consider both micro and macro perspectives. In my work related to energy, I came to understand the importance of analysing global trends—such as tracking how the three trillion dollars invested annually in energy infrastructure is allocated. It is easy to become focused on local issues and overlook broader developments, but the MBA programme truly encouraged me to approach problems from multiple viewpoints."

How has being an alum of WBS benefited you and your career?
“Without question the MBA has been key to my progression. It enabled me to move into broader roles with more commercial and leadership responsibilities. Being part of the WBS community has been one of the highlights of my career. I’ve been fortunate to be invited back to support WBS on courses on energy and leadership as well as recently joining a panel on crisis management at The Shard. The network and opportunities to remain part of WBS are second to none and being a WBS alumni is something I am hugely proud of."

What are some of your most memorable experiences or highlights from your time at WBS?
“My MBA was at a time of great change for me personally, I left the first teaching week to go and get married, and I somewhat naively thought I’d be able to use my paternity leave to finish my dissertation! The dissertation was a year late (thanks for the extension!) but I did get some fantastic time with my eldest daughter. The MBA came at such a transitional time for a lot of the cohort and it’s been great to keep in touch with them all since – including a family meet up in Brussels with my good friend and MBA colleague Juergen last year.”

What advice would you give to current students?
“View the MBA as a long-term investment in yourself, extending far beyond just your career. Careers are no longer linear, and the MBA’s influence surpasses your day job by offering networking, learning opportunities, and fresh perspectives. WBS features leading academics, and the MBA marks just the beginning of your alumni journey. Sixteen years after starting at Warwick, I still feel very much part of the WBS community.”

“I also remain hugely grateful to David Elmes from WBS for all his support. David has been a true mentor to me and someone who’s council and insight I have always valued.”

Find out more about WBS alumni benefits.