Karl Oakes MBA Graduate 2015
For Karl Oaks, Head of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at Queen’s University Belfast, the Queen’s MBA was a catalyst for transformation, reshaping his leadership approach, expanding his perspective, and empowering him to lead with purpose.
The Queen’s MBA was a transformative experience that reshaped my professional trajectory and personal outlook. Entering the programme, I was surrounded by a cohort of professionals from a diverse mix of public and private sectors, each bringing unique perspectives, challenges, and insights.
Learning from my peers in real-life environments was invaluable. Their experiences prompted deep reflection on my own leadership style and helped me identify areas for growth as I prepared for the next stage of my career.
The curriculum was intentionally broad, exposing me to disciplines and frameworks I had never encountered before. This breadth allowed me to “tool up” in areas such as finance, strategy, and operations domains that were previously outside my expertise. More importantly, it stretched my thinking and encouraged me to collaborate beyond the classroom and graduation hall. The relationships I built during the programme continue to enrich my professional network and open doors to new opportunities.
One of the most impactful aspects of the MBA was its emphasis on leadership development. Through team-based learning, executive coaching, and real-world consulting projects, I gained a deeper understanding of how I lead and how I can lead better. The programme challenged me to reflect on how to get the best out of myself and how to inspire and empower others. It helped me refine my career goals, improve my interview performance, and build lasting confidence in my ability to navigate complex environments.
I recognised early on the need to sharpen my strategic acumen, broaden my global perspective, and deepen my leadership toolkit. The Queen’s MBA offered a unique opportunity to do just that.
Since completing the MBA, I have grown both personally and professionally. I now hold a senior leadership position, managing a large multidisciplinary team and driving strategic initiatives that align with my passion for innovation, wellbeing, and civic engagement.
The MBA equipped me not only with the technical skills required for this role but also with the mindset to lead with purpose and adaptability. For any prospective candidate, I can confidently say that the Queen’s MBA is more than a degree, it’s a catalyst for transformation. It empowers you to think differently, lead authentically, and pursue your goals with clarity and conviction.
