I wouldn’t call myself a job-hopper, but I’ve had a pretty diverse career so far and it all came together at Teesside. I’ve always followed opportunities that are long-term and meaningful – that’s why I’ve been at Teesside University International Business School for 16 years, both as a student and now a member of staff.
Before coming to Teesside, I worked across retail, food and beverage, and tourism. I eventually made my way into cultural heritage thanks to the practical experience and academic knowledge I gained during my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. My major break came through a scholarship opportunity at the university in tourism development. It offered the chance to complete a PhD with a bursary and learn to teach alongside – I packed my bags, moved away from my hometown in South Shields and have never looked back!
Progressing from scholarship student, to lecturer, to now a very proud Deputy Head of our Strategy, Leadership and Enterprise department, I’ve seen so much positive change here at Teesside. Along the way, I’ve had the chance to work with amazing external organisations in conservation, health and wellbeing, and the arts. I’ve seen how leadership and management are increasingly recognised as central to what they can achieve. I’ve had the biggest privilege of working with non-profits across industries, to ensure local communities get what they need, and so businesses can learn from charities and social enterprise to make everything we do better for people and our planet.
The connection between my learning, teaching and research, and our local communities is the reason I’m here. I see how resilient and creative people are, and how we all work together to show what a beautiful place Teesside is. The greatest reward is being able to see students from all over the world share the same experiences I’ve had, within and around our university.
Teesside and Teesside University made me. I’ve brought my children up here, learned to drive at 27, fixed up houses and volunteered in every green space you can think of. There’s opportunity oozing out of every corner, with welcome smiles, the most helpful people and the best pies along the way. I think I’ll be staying!
By Jennifer Hagan
