Lee Jesic

Doctor of Business Administration, Executive MBA, Mechanical Engineering MSc, BEng

Lee came to university to enhance his career prospects. From a Bachelors and Master’s degree to a PhD, Lee thrived during his studies which helped him to gain promotions at work. Nowadays, he’s the Engineering Manager of Kuka Systems UK. 

“I began my career as a Design Engineer at a young age, which led me to study part-time while working full-time. I joined Kuka Systems UK in 2006, and the company encouraged me to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering at what was then known as the University of Central England.

Initially, the idea of pursuing a degree felt extremely daunting, and I worried it was beyond my skill set. However, I pushed myself to meet the requirements, and I found the experience of studying and applying the skills learned in the workplace to be incredibly rewarding.

After completing my degree, I wanted to challenge myself further, and Kuka Systems UK agreed to fund my Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, again at BCU.

Once again, I found that studying and applying my knowledge in the workplace was highly fulfilling. Additionally, Kuka Systems UK promoted me to Deputy Design Manager, giving me exposure to the management side of the business.

Discovering my interest in business management, I approached my line manager to request sponsorship for a Master’s in Business Administration, which the company agreed to support.

This experience was transformative for both my personal development and my career. Upon completing the MBA, I realized that my passion for business management had grown, leading me to pursue a Doctorate in Business Administration at BCU. This research was action-based and applied to Kuka Systems UK, which served as my case study company.

Continuing my studies at the same university, BCU, has been beneficial for me, as it minimises the need to adjust to a new campus layout and university systems and policies, which in turn reduces my anxiety.

Additionally, I have built relationships with the lecturers and support staff, and having these established connections is valuable when I need assistance. Lastly, my familiarity with the library resources, research tools, and the university's website allows me to concentrate on my studies and avoids unnecessary delays.

I have found BCU to be an excellent place to study. The facilities are great, and the staff couldn’t have done more to support me while doing my research.

Nowadays, I’m the Engineering Manager of Kuka Systems UK. This is a new role for me which I started just days before I completed my Doctorate, which has been my proudest achievement so far.

Studying for my Doctorate and conducting research within my organisation has allowed me to make a positive impact at a strategic level. This impact has not only helped me achieve my current position but has also equipped me with the skills necessary to continue supporting the business effectively, using the knowledge I gained during my studies.

My advice for anyone wishing to study at BCU is to choose a topic that genuinely interests you; it’s a long journey and staying engaged is important. Stay organised and determine what study schedule works best for you. And, most importantly, be open with your supervisors if you are facing challenges; communication is key.”