Melissa Hester

Lecturer in Management

Picture of staff member

I completed a BA in Political Science and an MBA from the University of Florida as well as a Master of International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State. My specialisms during my studies were: Management, International Marketing, Import/Export, Operations Management and Negotiations.

Over the past 20 years, I have worked for multi-national corporations and small to medium enterprises, in a variety of industries from financial services to consumer products; from healthcare to art galleries. My roles were centered on: Management, Operations Management, Marketing, Market Analytics & Research and Website Content & Design.

I am working towards a PhD studying the impact of education policy, specifically assessments, on businesses' labour engagement and the impact on the wider economy.

I enjoy working with the wider community, engaging with young people to assist in improving their opportunities and helping them to achieve their potential.

Research Interests

I am interested in the effects of education policy on business managerial skills and productivity and their further impact on national economies.

Professional Associations

Association Function
Chartered Management Institute Member
University of Florida Alumni Association Alumni Member
Thunderbird School of Global Management Alumni Association Alumni Member
American Management Association Member
American Marketing Association Professional Member

Education

Institution Qualification Subject From/To
The University of Florida Master of Business Administration Business Management, Finance, and E-Commerce 1995 -1996
The University of Florida Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Urban Planning, Politics & Ecology, and Political Leadership

1989      -1992

Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University Master of International Management Management, International Marketing, and Spanish Language 1997      -1998

Other Professional Activities

Title From/To
Series 7 License 1993 - 1995

Teaching Interests

My main academic focus in teaching is centered around Management and Marketing. With Management Studies, students are given life-long skills that reach beyond industry into personal endeavours. 

-Leadership
-Effective Communication
-Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
-Strategic Planning

"A competent manager had about twice as much impact on the team's performance as a competent worker" - Ben Weidmann of the Harvard Kennedy School

Programs/ Modules Coordinated

Title Subject
Creative Change and Innovation BUS7B45