From Business Leader to Developing Future Business Leaders: My Career Pivot into Teaching
I'm excited to share a big change in my career. After more than ten years working as an Executive Director of INPACT Global's EMEA, CSA, and AP regions, I took some time off to rest and reflect on the next steps - I decided to move into teaching as a Business Educator.
Why the change?
Throughout my corporate career, I found that I felt happiest when helping others grow—whether it was training member firms, mentoring colleagues, or supporting teams to succeed. I enjoyed learning about how people learn and seeing that moment when new knowledge clicks. This love for teaching and helping others develop has always been a consistent thread throughout my professional life.
I believe that studying business is most useful when it connects real-world experiences with what students learn in class. With my background managing budgets, leading strategic initiatives, and working across different countries, I can bring real-life examples to help students understand business concepts they’ll encounter in their careers.
What I bring to the classroom:
- Practical knowledge from working in the business world
- Stories and examples from my work experience
- An understanding of international markets
- Knowledge of strategies, marketing, and managing finances
- A focus on creating engaging lessons that put students at the centre of their learning
I will shortly be completing a PGCE teaching qualification in Post-14 Education and Skills at the University of Derby under the mentorship and guidance of Dr. Dan Williams and Kayte Haselgrove - the renowned Programme Leaders for the Post-14 Further Education and Skills UoD (ITT/E) Initial Teacher Education program. This allowed me to combine my corporate background with pedagogical expertise to create learning experiences that prepare students for both academic success and workplace readiness.
Here’s a story of how I’ve seen this work:
Recently, our team supported students at Loughborough College plan sustainability-based events. When we started, they weren’t sure what ideas to pursue or even how to get started. A few weeks later, I went to their events and saw how confident they had become in such a short time. Seeing that transformation - from unsure to competent and professional execution - confirmed I made the right career switch.
My students motivate me every day:
Many learners in the BTEC Business cohort are working multiple jobs while studying full-time, others have caring responsibilities, and some are working hard to improve their grades in GCSE Maths and English. Despite these challenges, they are still focused in investing in their futures, whether to get into university or find a good job. Seeing their dedication inspires me to do my best to support them.
There’s a saying that “those who can’t do, teach,” but I believe the opposite is true. Having managed an global organisation, developing strategic initiatives, and leading teams across continents - I feel drawn to teach. My experience doesn't make me less qualified to teach; it makes me more effective in preparing students for the complex business world they'll enter.
Looking ahead:
I hope to find opportunities at innovative schools where I can use my mix of business experience and teaching skills. My goal is to inspire students and help them connect what they learn in class with real-life business situations.
If you know of educational institutions looking for a #BusinessEducator with strong industry experience, I’d appreciate your recommendations. I’m also interested in connecting with others who have made similar career changes.
#CareerPivot #BusinessEducation #TeachingCareers #FromCorporateToClassroom #LifelongLearning