Head of Asset Change and Transformation at National Grid, Sam McGauley, shares his experience of completing the AI Leadership programme.

What is your name and what are you studying?

My name is Sam McGauley and I am Head of Asset Change and Transformation within the Asset Operations team at National Grid Electricity Transmission. My role focuses on helping the organisation adapt to change, improve performance and adopt new ways of working, so the AI Leadership programme was closely aligned to the challenges and opportunities I face every day.

What motivated you to apply for the AI Leadership programme?

AI is one of the rare technological shifts that has the potential to change almost every aspect of how we work and live. I wanted to better understand how organisations can move beyond tactical adoption and implement AI in a genuinely transformative way. The programme also addressed questions I had around leadership, strategy and decision-making in a world where the technology is evolving at an incredible pace. There's a lot of noise around AI, both positive and negative. I wanted a practical and balanced view of how to lead and apply AI effectively within the workplace.

Why did you choose to study this programme?

This programme goes beyond the technology itself and focused on leadership, strategy and real-world implementation. The AI Leadership programme brought those elements together and provided an opportunity to learn from experts and peers who are facing similar challenges in their own organisations.

What was it about the programme that stood out?

The diversity of the cohort added real value to the programme. Everyone brought different perspectives, experiences and challenges from their own industries, which made the discussions richer and more relevant. The structure of the programme was also well balanced, combining insightful lectures with interactive breakout sessions that challenged our thinking and encouraged practical application.

What did you hope to learn when you applied?

I wanted to understand how organisations can move from isolated AI pilots and tactical use cases towards a more strategic and sustainable approach. I was particularly interested in how leaders can make informed decisions in an environment where the technology is developing so quickly.

What was your favourite part of the programme?

Spending time with a group of people who were all trying to answer similar questions about the future of AI in their organisations was probably the highlight. Everyone approached the topic from a different angle, which led to some great conversations and challenged many of my own assumptions.

Did you enjoy learning in The Shard?

The Shard is a fantastic venue and a great place to learn. It's easily accessible, provides an inspiring setting and creates a real sense that you're stepping away from the day-to-day to focus on learning and development.

Did you enjoy networking with your cohort?

Yes. Networking was one of the most valuable aspects of the programme. It was interesting to hear how people from different sectors are approaching AI, the challenges they are facing and the lessons they have learned. Those conversations often continued beyond the classroom and provided perspectives that I wouldn't have gained from the course content alone.

What have you taken from the programme to your workplace?

The programme gave me a clearer framework for assessing where AI can genuinely add value and where it may not be the right solution. It reinforced the importance of maintaining a human in the loop, particularly when decisions have significant operational, ethical or strategic implications. It also gave me practical tools and ideas that I have already started applying within my organisation.

What would be your advice to someone considering applying for this programme in the future?

If you want an energising, thought-provoking and highly relevant course delivered by experts who understand both the technology and the leadership challenges surrounding it, I strongly recommend it. Come prepared to contribute, challenge your assumptions and learn from the experience of others on the programme.

Why was the WBS the school you chose for this programme?

Warwick Business School has a strong reputation for combining academic rigour with practical application. What attracted me most was the programme's focus on leadership and business outcomes rather than solely on the technology itself. I wanted a course that would help me understand how to lead through the AI transition, and WBS provided exactly that balance.

Find out more about our AI and Innovation programmes.