news

A group of MBA students from Newcastle University Business School have been given first hand advice on effective leadership and business management from one of the region's top female entrepreneurs.

Fiona Cruickshank, MD of Prudhoe-based pharmaceutical firm The Specials Laboratory, and David Goldman Visiting Professor of Business Innovation at Newcastle University Business School, invited the group of international students for a tour of the state-of-the-art facilities at Specials, hosting a guest speaker presentation and Q&A session on ‘leading change' as part of their full time MBA programme. 

Dr Lucy Lu, MBA Programme Director at Newcastle University Business School commented: "Leading change is a core aspect of the MBA and introduces students to the theories and concepts behind effective leadership and change management.  As well as theoretical knowledge however, it's also crucial that we're able to give practical examples of successful business leadership.

"Our links with industry are very important to us which is why we work so closely with businesses such as The Specials Lab to provide our students with a real grasp on how businesses work in practice. 

"As the entrepreneur behind one of the most innovative businesses in the region, Fiona was an obvious choice to share her business expertise and as Visiting Goldman Professor for 2007/08, she has taken a very active role in providing leadership and mentoring to the school and its students."

A registered pharmacist, Fiona has over 20 years of experience in the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing. After more than ten years working across the UK in community pharmacies, hospitals and in industry, she moved back to her native North East and set up her own business - The Specials Laboratory, with business partner Brian Dougherty in 1999.

"As an active supporter of the local knowledge economy, I am always keen to share my experiences and help nurture the business leaders of tomorrow. The North East is a fantastic place to do business and by working collaboratively with NUBS and other key regional partners, our aim is to ensure The Specials Laboratory plays its part in attracting and retaining the business leaders of tomorrow right here in the region," commented Fiona.     

For further information about this or any other news item then please click here.