Having just completed her MBA and due to graduate in July, part-time student and Queen’s Nurse, Caroline Knott shares her journey with us. One that has resulted in a change of direction and ambitious but solid plans for the future.
‘As a Queen’s Nurse with 35 years in the NHS, my MBA journey was initially plagued by imposter syndrome and self-doubt, I questioned whether this was the right path for a healthcare professional and whether I could manage working and studying. Thankfully those fears did not last for long.
‘Studying in person with two diverse cohorts quickly became a source of strength and learning. With each module, I discovered how business principles could transform healthcare delivery. The Strategic HRM module built my confidence, while Financial Analysis pushed me beyond my comfort zone. When the Delivering Innovation module sparked my creativity, I realised my passion for digital healthcare solutions which could revolutionise patient care.
‘The MBA provided coaching sessions that opened my mindset to new possibilities. This led to me reconsidering my career and I obtained new roles as Clinical Safety Officer and Digital Transformation Lead. This provided opportunities to apply my MBA learning to address real healthcare challenges: reducing technostress, improving patient safety, and enhancing the sustainability of the NHS using digital solutions.
‘The programme nurtured my evolution from a compassionate leader to one who embraces quantum leadership: reframing situations, taking holistic views, and leading with a clear vision. This transformation empowered me to professionally challenge approaches that adding more systems will solve problems. Taking a step back and reviewing the appropriate use of current digital systems can support the reduction of technostress.
While studying, I realised my passion for digital healthcare solutions that could revolutionise patient care.
‘Throughout my studies, I prioritised inclusivity; supporting international students and ensuring diverse voices were heard in classroom discussions. The MBA provided a platform for sharing my experiences of over 30 years in healthcare and providing practical advice on career development to fellow students, particularly for those interested in careers in the NHS. This demonstrates ethos of the MBA programme, it is not about competing with your fellow students, but collaboration, support, and encouragement.
‘My confidence grew throughout the MBA with completion of research on the impact of interruptions in community nursing which has the potential to support a vulnerable workforce. I presented my approach to addressing technostress at Digital Health Rewired 2025 and co-wrote a chapter of a nursing book. These all demonstrate how I am already translating my MBA learning into a broader healthcare impact.
‘The pinnacle of my MBA was achieving a highly commended award when shortlisted as AMBA Student of the Year. This recognition validates my transformation as a leader through the MBA who can influence healthcare delivery at a national level while maintaining my core values of compassion, integrity, and inclusivity.
‘As I look to the future, I aim to continue this trajectory, using my enhanced leadership capabilities to drive sustainable innovation in healthcare while nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders.’
We look forward to following Caroline as she no doubt delivers on her plans. The MBA really does have transformative effects!
If you work for the NHS or in health or social care, why not explore what an executive MBA can do for you. You’ll be following in the footsteps of the many doctors, nurses, pharmacists, operations managers, policy makers, and other healthcare professionals that have completed an MBA at Kent whilst continuing to work. Like Caroline says, on the MBA you will benefit as much from the sharing of ideas, as well as putting into practice all the new learnings and skills you acquire along the way.
AMBA-accredited, Kent Business School’s MBA is underpinned by our high-quality research and informed by the global outlook of our international community. It builds on your current experience to transform you into a responsible business leader. To find out more, join us for one of our upcoming MBA Briefings.