We’ve got a lot to crow about on our MBA

A highly trained bird has been recruited by the University of Northampton to promote a course that’s perfect for those considering leaving the Armed Forces for a civilian career.

Vera the raven plays a starring role in a new video in which she swoops down to deliver the message that a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is suited for those contemplating a move to Civvy Street – or who wish to progress their Armed Forces career.

Watch the video below.

Dr Mils Hills, Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management at the University, worked with Vera and her handler Emma Hills of Heythrop Zoological Gardens and Minerva Elite Performance, to create the heart-warming video where Vera delivers the message to consider UON.

Talking about his motivation for the video, Dr Hills said: “For those seeking promotion within the Armed Forces, or considering a civilian career, the MBA defence pathway builds huge self-confidence and enables servicemen and women to transition into high level roles. I want to spread the word to them and veterans that this pathway to a degree is open to all of them.

“I enlisted help from Vera to spread this message, as I wanted to promote education to the Armed Forces in a way that brought a smile to everyone’s face at this very difficult time. But I also wanted to celebrate my amazingly talented animal and human friends at Heythrop Zoological Gardens, who are leading the way in setting standards, advising on government policy for animal training.”

The defence pathway of the University of Northampton MBA programme has been specifically designed to identify and enhance the vital skills the defence community develop thorough their Forces training, and adapt this for civilian life.

Minerva Elite Performance, which has a global reputation for excellence in educating serving and former military personnel, was established by DBA graduate and British Army veteran, Guy Batchelor. Minerva Elite Performance provides a gateway from the forces to the Northampton MBA programme, enabling Forces students to enter directly into the final year of the MBA.

For more information on studying for an MBA, please visit the MBA subject hub.

Both Minerva Elite Performance and the University of Northampton are signatories of the Military Covenant, underlining their commitment to supporting the UK armed forces in all ways possible.