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Kempsey on track for a host of MBAs

Undaunted by the prospect of juggling six years of study with full time work, staff have embraced the course with enthusiasm and diligence, often being able to use real life situations at Kempsey Shire Council as the basis for assignments and project work. Eleven staff members, drawn from each of Council’s four departments, have successfully completed their first year of study in a course that will ultimately see them achieve a Masters of Business Administration (MBA).

Council’s General Manager, Allan Burgess, said that Council had seen the need to provide management training opportunities. He said Kempsey had formed a partnership with the North Coast Institute of TAFE to enable staff to study a university qualification in their home town, instead of having to travel elsewhere or participate in distance education.

“Council has made a significant commitment to this initiative by offering to fund 100 per cent of course fees to successful students and, as each of the eleven students passed their first year, this means a reimbursement of fees for each of them,” Allan Burgess said, “We are extremely proud of their efforts and we know that both the students and Council will gain from their ongoing professional development.”

For Deb Mills from the Kempsey Library, the first year was very challenging. “My experience has been one of growth, enthusiasm, enjoyment and anticipation,” she said.

Toni Shannon from the Kempsey Visitor Information Centre echoed Deb’s thoughts.

“The MBA program is one of the best things I have done!” Toni Shannon said. “The subjects studied have broadened my mind encouraging me look at the big picture and create positive future goals for our organisation and even flowing into my personal life. The knowledge that I am doing something good for myself, the organisation and the future of the Shire keep me motivated to succeed.”

Edwina Brown from the Economic Development Office has found the course interesting and very stimulating.

“The group has formed strong relationships and works well. Class discussions are often robust and entertaining,” she said. Council has been very proactive in providing staff and locals the opportunity to study at this level. It has set a precedent for other businesses in the Macleay Valley to follow by encouraging their staff to take this next step in their career”.

For further information contact Allan Burgess on (02) 6566 3200.

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