We asked Dr Maria Elisavet Balta what makes her so invested in our transformational MBA programme.
Maria is also a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management, and her research focuses on how digital technologies support business model pivoting, organisational resilience, and effective crisis response strategies.
Supporting women farmers in Brazil and Nigeria
She is a co-investigator on a new international research project that aims to help smallholder women farmers in Brazil and Nigeria adapt to climate change.
The project focuses on conservation agriculture to improve climate resilience and economic stability. Over three years, 2024-27, the team will deliver research, training and policy recommendations to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable farming communities.
What excites you about teaching the MBA?
“Kent Business School is a fantastic environment to learn, challenge, and grow. It gives academics the opportunity to and create real business impact and build a strong research profile. For those teaching on the MBA, we bring practical insights and learning informed by the latest academic research into the classroom. We help professionals understand organisations holistically, think strategically, and manage responsibly. At the same time, I enjoy seeing future leaders question the status quo, push boundaries, and reinvent themselves!”
What makes the MBA such an essential qualification for businesspeople today?
“In a period of profound transition, the MBA develops future leaders by supporting their professional development. We create leaders who can adapt and explore their potential to create opportunities for their organisations, their sector, their communities and themselves. It’s transformational.”
When you are not teaching or conducting research, what makes you happiest?
“Reading, watching movies and relaxing with family and friends!”
Hear more from Maria in the latest MBA video.
Find out more about the Kent MBA.
About Maria
Maria holds a PhD in Management Studies funded by Leventis Foundation and MSc in Human Resources and Employment Relations both from Brunel University London. She is Senior Fellow of Higher Education Academy and Academic Member of CIPD.
Over the years, Maria held several leadership roles within the school, including Director of Research and Innovation Lead, Director of the MSc in Human Resource Management, TEF Coordinator and Chief Examiner.
Maria is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and recipient of the University of Kent Graduate and Researcher College Prize for Programme Academic Lead.