As a globally recognised travel retail professional with over 20 years of experience in retail operations. My career spans food, general merchandise, luxury, health and personal care, and specialty retail, with expertise across supermarkets, department stores, convenience formats, and e-commerce platforms.

I began my journey with a prestigious placement on the Tesco Stores Management Graduate Programme, an early endorsement of my leadership potential and operational capabilities. That opportunity ignited a passion for retail excellence and a long-term ambition to lead at the highest levels of global operations.

Over the years, I have built a reputation for delivering results in complex, fast-paced environments. Specialising in global travel retail, I’ve led the implementation of operational frameworks across international markets, balancing brand consistency with local adaptability. My work has involved navigating diverse regulatory landscapes, managing multicultural teams, and driving performance across geographies. This global exposure has shaped my leadership style and positioned me as a trusted authority in international retail strategy.

Despite my extensive experience, I recognised the need to evolve beyond operational execution and embrace strategic leadership.

The Queen’s MBA was a carefully constructed choice, an elite programme that matched my ambition and offered the intellectual rigor I sought. The curriculum challenged me to think holistically, integrating disciplines such as corporate finance, digital transformation, and strategic innovation. The diverse cohort and collaborative learning environment enriched my perspective and sharpened my ability to lead across functions and cultures.

Since completing the MBA, the transformation has been significant. I now approach challenges with a broader strategic lens, aligning operational decisions with enterprise-wide goals. I’ve become more adept at leveraging data, driving innovation, and influencing senior stakeholders.

The MBA has accelerated my career trajectory, enabling me to take on more senior, cross-functional roles with greater impact and visibility.

Beyond career advancement, the Queen’s MBA has expanded my global network connecting me with peers, mentors, and thought leaders across industries. These relationships continue to fuel my growth and open doors to new opportunities. The program also instilled a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, which is essential in today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape.

For prospective MBA candidates, the Queen’s MBA is not just a credential it’s a catalyst. It equips you with the tools, confidence, and strategic insight to lead at the highest level. In my case, it bridged the gap between operational mastery and executive leadership. Today, I’m not just part of the retail industry, I help shape its future.

Michaela McCormack

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