Lucy Philipson
Staff profile
I am a Northumbrian farmer’s daughter and passionate about our environment.
- Senior Lecturer, Strategy, Leadership and Enterprise
Tell us about your background?
I spent 20 years in the charity sector running a charity called COCO (Comrades of Children Overseas). COCO is a children’s charity, providing sustainable education to children living in poor communities. I started as a volunteer and worked my way up to CEO. I guest lectured at Teesside Uni about responsible leadership, and now I teach it.
What do you most enjoy about teaching?
I love sharing my experience with students and encouraging them to share theirs, watching as they reflect on their journey, how far they have come, and how far they can go. Being a part of another person’s journey to reaching their true potential is an absolute privilege. I also love a good class debate and always learn from my students. It’s not a one-way street.
How can students benefit from your experience?
As a CEO, you have to know a little bit about everything, including finance, HR, marketing, and sales. Although I have this experience, it’s the more complex areas of toxic leadership, ethical decision making and self-reflection to build confidence and resilience that I think my students like best. We are all human and we all go through similar challenges in our careers. My students often say that my empathy and experience helps them to develop their own ideas, resilience, and ultimately that qualification.
What industry links do you have?
I have links in all sectors, that’s the beauty of working in a charity. You network with the charity sector, fundraise with the private sector and collaborate with the public sector. My LinkedIn is varied, but useful!
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I have a lot of highlights but if I had to pick one it would be summiting Mount Kilimanjaro for charity with a group of supporters. I have a photo on the wall in my home office to remind me every day. It’s not just the summit but the journey we had along the way, making connections and lifelong friends who share your values and help you dig deep when the going gets tough.
Why should students consider studying this course?
The Teesside MBA gives you the space and support to become a purposeful, confident and responsible leader. You focus on real world challenges, self awareness and the skills that genuinely matter in practice, from understanding people to making responsible, values led decisions. The course is collaborative, applied and grounded in professional relevance. You don’t just study leadership, you explore who you are as a leader and how you want to make an impact. It’s a transformative experience that strengthens your capability and confidence.
What is the best piece of advice your have for your students?
Don’t hesitate, just jump in and trust that you are good enough!