Strategic Leadership & Change participant Phil Hill shares his experience on the programme.

• Why did you choose to study an Executive Diploma?

Changing role from product management to head of product, I wanted to understand more about the wider aspects of our business to enable me to communicate with confidence at board level.

• What has been your highlight of the Executive Diploma and why?

The entire process was a highlight, surrounded by like-minded individuals, each amazing in their own field and the university lecturers who have actually practised what they are teaching in the real world. At one point, I remember vividly, sitting in a lecture room thinking ‘This is a privilege to be sat here with these amazing people passing on their wisdom’.

• How did you fit study around your work and home life?

With great difficulty, but fortunately, with tremendous support from my employer, I was given time in work to study.

• How has the diploma enhanced your career?

The diploma has changed how I view my role and how I manage and interact with others and has enabled me to place structure around long-term objectives.

• How have you used what you have learned at work?

As I take on my new role this course has empowered me with the ability to think strategically, across all aspects of the role and I now approach the new year with a defined strategy in hand and a plan to achieve it.  

• What is the one piece of advice you have for others thinking of doing the diploma?  

Go for it. I am practical, not academic, I am an introvert by nature, my apprehension was immeasurable. Within the first 30 minutes that all dissolved, the people you meet and the knowledge you gain will make a positive impact for the rest of your life.

• Has the programme helped you to feel more confident as a leader?

Yes, more confident in my own decisions as they are now based on a lot more than intuition, and more confident in making change for the better. I also feel that I can explain to others why change is necessary. 

• How would you sum up your experience in three words?

Challenging, eye-opening, rewarding.

Find out more about The Warwick Executive Diploma in Strategic Leadership & Change.