Caitlin Hamilton

Q&A

Tell us a bit about yourself - what's your background?

I began my professional journey by completing an undergraduate degree in English and Spanish. I did a placement year teaching English in Spain. This year inspired me to learn more about organisational culture and differences on a global level. It encouraged me to complete the MSc Global Human Resource Management course at Newcastle. This helped me pivot into an HR role in an international business, applying my learning to projects and continuing to develop my professional skills. In this role, I was responsible for Health & Wellbeing and Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. I supported the organisation in achieving numerous awards and accreditations in recognition of the people-centric culture.

What did your most recent role entail?

I worked as a Senior HR Advisor in a pan-European soft furnishings manufacturer and ecommerce retailer. I worked on all aspects of the employee lifecycle. I managed complex ER cases and led on people projects. This included:

• leading a team of 16 Health Advocates to achieve the highest level of the Better Health at Work Award
• progressing the organisation’s DE&I strategy. This culminated in the achievement of Disability Confident Leader status

Why did you choose to study an MBA?

Following early career success, I was looking for opportunities that would allow me to grow my skillset and accelerate my career opportunities. An MBA offered me the opportunity to gain an understanding of business beyond the HR sphere, and apply this learning to my future career. Being challenged is a crucial part of my motivation at work. As my work began to feel easier, I sought out a new challenge. Instead of searching for a new role in HR, I decided to look outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to learn more about different business areas and expand my horizons. An MBA allows me to explore opportunities and access career support that will help me identify that next challenge.

What attracted you to the MBA programme at Newcastle University Business School?

Since graduating from my HR Master's, I’ve participated in events within the Business School as part of the alumni community. I've followed the school’s successes with great interest. The triple accreditation and regular recognition of the quality of teaching were also key factors.

In my previous role, we worked with the NUBS MBA cohort on consultancy projects. I learned about the quality of teaching, exposure and interaction with a wide range of businesses, and personal development experiences from the students. This provided an exciting opportunity to gain insights into a wider range of organisations, and expand my horizons. The diversity of the cohort was also a big selling point, allowing me to learn from others’ varying experiences.

What does it mean to you to receive an MBA Scholarship? What impact will it have?

Receiving the Next Generation Impact Scholarship has been invaluable. I would not have otherwise been able to complete an MBA due to the costs and experience level requirements associated with the course. Despite being early in my career, this scholarship recognises that my significant success to date. It allows me to develop the skills and knowledge that will help me accelerate my future career. The scholarship allows me to join a cohort of likeminded professionals with wide ranging expertise. I can be taught by brilliant academics and professionals, access experienced mentors and tailored career support, and develop a global network.

To have this opportunity so early in my career will have a great impact on my future plans. It will allow me to explore more senior level positions post-graduation than I would have been able to apply for without the MBA, and will accelerate my personal and professional growth.