Wirral NHS manager’s University of Chester research helping to improve staff welfare

Aaron Brizell, Head of Project Management Office (PMO) and Senior Programme Manager for Wirral University Teaching Hospital, studied part-time while working to achieve a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with distinction. 

He is among thousands of University of Chester students who celebrated graduating this month, with the ceremonies held at Chester Cathedral. 

While delighted with his degree certificate, the 42-year-old manager feels he has achieved much more - through enhancing his leadership capabilities and driving impactful change within his organisation because of his studies.    

For his MBA research project, Aaron focused on staff welfare, identifying recommendations that can make a positive change. 

Aaron Brizell with Lisa Rowe.

He explained: “My research project, which explored the impact of staff welfare facilities on staff well-being, allowed me to apply the theoretical frameworks I had learned in a meaningful way.  

“By using the models of employee engagement and well-being studied in the People and Organisational Performance module, I was able to conduct a comprehensive analysis of how welfare amenities affect employee well-being.  

“This project not only highlighted the impact these facilities have on employee well-being, enhancing organisational performance and the impact on patient care, but also enabled me to identify recommendations shared with my manager and contribute to discussions around staff welfare facilities within the Urgent and Emergency Care Upgrade Programme (UECUP).  

“While these recommendations have not yet been formally introduced within the organisation, I plan to incorporate key findings into ongoing projects, which will be presented as part of a leadership course initiative.” 

Speaking about how the Business School course boosted his leadership skills, Aaron said: “One of the standout aspects of the course has been its focus on the practical application of theory. The comprehensive modules have equipped me with critical leadership skills and strategic insight that have significantly enhanced my ability to lead effectively in my professional environment.  

“The modules on leadership, organisational environment, and strategic planning and management provided me with key tools to adapt to various situations in my organisation and has enabled me to lead organisational change.” 

Lisa Rowe, Associate Professor in Work-Based and Lifelong Learning, is delighted with Aaron’s success.  

She said: “It has been a privilege to support Aaron’s research. His evidence-based recommendations identified a series of welfare-focused initiatives, fostering a more supportive work environment.  

“The application of theory into practice through a work-based MBA has strengthened Aaron’s leadership skills and empowered him to drive meaningful, lasting impact within the Trust and beyond, and resulted in a well-deserved award of MBA with distinction.”  

Aaron recommends the work-based study route and has been pleased with the exceptional support he has received, adding: “The lecturers were very understanding of the impact of the course on my day-to-day life and this was invaluable in helping me through difficult times.” 

Now he has completed his studies, Aaron will continue to apply his new skills and confidence towards both his current organisation and his future career growth.  

• To find out more about work-based undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Chester, please email wbis@chester.ac.uk