MBA student named North West’s Outstanding Cancer Nurse 2022

Shirley, who is currently studying for a Senior Leaders Apprenticeship Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration at LJMU, works at Liverpool Head and Neck Centre and was commended for her work within the Liverpool University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust for enhancing care and improving outcomes for cancer patients. 

We caught up with Shirley to find out how she feels about receiving the award for the North West’s Outstanding Cancer Nurse 2022...

I have to say I was very emotional. I have worked in cancer research for 15 years and it is a cause that is very close to my heart.  To be nominated by your respected leader is very humbling and reaffirms that you really are doing a good job.  

How did you feel when you found out you had won?  

I was a little shocked, proud and emotional.  

My husband was with me at the awards and seeing how proud he was when my name was called out was priceless, as he’s the one who will be there for me when I’ve had a difficult day.  

I dedicated the award to my mum who I lost to cancer five years ago. I am more determined than ever to improve the care and outcomes for patients through research. I can only do this with the support of our patients who put their trust in us and the fantastic teams I work with.  

What are you currently studying at LJMU and how has it helped your career so far?  

I’m currently studying a Senior Leaders Apprenticeship Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, which can lead onto the full MBA qualification, which I am definitely planning on progressing on to. 

I was very apprehensive about applying for the apprenticeship as I haven't studied for approximately 15 years but the opportunity was advertised in Liverpool University Foundation Trust and it piqued my interest.  

I have a senior leadership role in the trust, leading teams to improve research delivery, performance and patient access to research studies. The knowledge and skills I have learned at LJMU has already improved my leadership skills, strategic planning and reflective practice in the first year.  

Plus the support from the lecturers has increased my confidence in my study ability and I am looking forward to further developing my knowledge and practice over the next year. 

North West Cancer Research is an independent charity dedicated to putting the region’s cancer needs first by funding life-saving research and education to tackle the cause, improve the care, and find the cure for cancer. To find out more about the charity visit their webpage. 

To find out more about studying a PG Diploma in Senior Leadership or a Postgraduate degree at LJMU, visit our webpages here.