Celebrating mentorship excellence: MBA Mentor of the Year announced

The annual award recognises mentors who have made an outstanding contribution to the student experience through the Durham MBA mentoring scheme. 

Each year, alongside their programme, Durham MBA (full-time) students are paired with a mentor to help them navigate the demands of study and prepare for their transition into the workplace.  

At the end of each year, students are invited to nominate their mentor for the annual Mentor of the Year award, recognising outstanding support and contribution. 

A valued mentor  

The mentoring scheme is a key element of the MBA programme, connecting students with experienced professionals and MBA alumni who provide practical guidance, inspiration, and encouragement.   

Chris completed the Durham MBA in 1998 and is now Director at DJI Consulting.  

Chris has been part of the mentoring programme at Durham since 2013, providing much valued advice and guidance to students.

Reflecting on the award and his time as an MBA mentor, Chris said:   

"Mentoring gives me the opportunity to give back to a business school I am very proud of. Having lived and worked abroad during my career, I understand some of the challenges students can face when studying in a different country. I enjoy seeing students develop throughout the year and helping them navigate both the academic and personal aspects of the MBA experience." 

Making a difference 

Chris was nominated by his mentee, Chutinant Techaphatipong, who said:   

“The scheme was outstanding thanks to Chris’s remarkable dedication and our regular meetings. Alongside discussing the MBA programme, career planning, and interview preparation, Chris always checked in on how I was adapting to life in the UK. Having that support made a huge difference to my year.”  

The Durham MBA mentoring scheme pairs students with experienced professionals and alumni who provide guidance on career development, leadership and life beyond the classroom.

The programme remains a defining feature of the Durham MBA, offering students the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished professionals and graduates. 

Become a mentor 

Interested in becoming a mentor? Help shape the next generation of business leaders and share your experience with our MBA community. 

👉 To join the mentoring programme or learn more, contact: business.alumni@durham.ac.uk.