Amjad Tayeh

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background and what made you choose the University of Leeds? 

My academic and professional experience in healthcare and hospital management has led me to look for additional studies to integrate broader global health perspectives with solid management skills. Along the way, the University of Leeds emerged as a shining academy of excellence not only for its global profile but also in developing the next generation of healthcare leaders. What I found particularly attractive was the Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, which has international renown for its health systems strengthening and policy, and leadership in healthcare management. 

The Nuffield Institute takes an innovative approach combining academic rigour with real-world practical relevance to the healthcare challenges of developed and developing countries. This fits very well with my aspiration to make a contribution in the improvement of hospital performance, patient outcomes, and sustainable health systems in my country. Additionally, the Centre’s focus on interdisciplinary knowledge, evidence-based approaches, and policy engagement closely aligns with my career aspirations. 

Why did you choose to study your particular course? 

This is because I feel that learning in such an intellectually stimulating, diverse, and cosmopolitan environment will grant me the expertise, connections, and knowledge that I need to contribute to the work of hospital management and the administration of healthcare further down the line. 

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most? 

Financial management, Health planning and hospital management operation 

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students? (If you were an international student, please also tell us about what it was like to study and live in the UK) 

Studying in Leeds would offer a good mix of academic prestige and cultural immersion: 
• Academic Landscape: Exposure to top institutions, interdisciplinary learning, and a heavy emphasis on research. 
• Social Connections: Thanks to friendly university systems such as student unions and societies to help make connections and create networks, it is going to be relatively much easier—very beneficial for those who are adjusting to a new place. 
• Cultural Enrichment: Visits to museums, art and music shows, and local festivals. 
• Costs: The overall expense of living in Leeds, in comparison to larger cities, had ease the burden on finances, allowing me to participate in additional experiences. 
• Transit & Travel: With frequent train service, travel within the UK—and even to Europe—is simpler and more appealing during breaks. 

What would you say about the learning and the career support facilities in your academic School or Faculty and at the University in general? 

At the Nuffield Institute for Health, I benefited from a rich learning environment that combined academic depth with practical exposure. The Institute provided access to specialised health management resources, including case studies, health economics datasets, and policy frameworks that were directly relevant to healthcare leadership and hospital management. My tutors and academic advisors offered continuous guidance, ensuring I could navigate both the academic requirements and the professional expectations of the programme. 
 
In addition, the Institute organised workshops on research methodology, health systems evaluation, and evidence-based management. These sessions enhanced my analytical and problem-solving skills and allowed me to apply theory to real-world healthcare challenges. The strong link between teaching and practice at Nuffield was one of its defining strengths. 
 
Beyond the Institute, the University of Leeds provided excellent support for learning. I frequently used the Edward Boyle Library, which offered both quiet study spaces and collaborative learning areas.  
As an international student, I also made use of the University’s Language Centre, which helped me refine my academic writing and communication in healthcare contexts. 

What have you been doing since finishing your studies? 

After graduating from the University of Leeds in 1998, I embarked on a career centred on healthcare management, quality, and organizational excellence. I have had the privilege of working with major hospitals such as Jordan Hospital in Jordan, Dallah Hospital in Saudi Arabia, and Providence Healthcare in Canada, as well as public health agencies and government institutions. My consultancy and leadership roles have focused on implementing ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22301, ISO 27001, among others), developing risk and business continuity frameworks, and guiding organizations through international accreditation processes. Beyond consultancy, I have served as a registered auditor and trainer with bodies such as the British Standards Institution (BSI) and have delivered capacity-building programmes across the region. These experiences have allowed me to contribute to advancing healthcare management practices, supporting both institutional growth and patient care outcomes over more than two decades. 

What company are you working for, what is your role, and what does it involve? 

Takamol Business Solutions. I work as a Partner Key Accounts delivery 

How do you think the skills and knowledge you developed at Leeds whilst studying your Masters helped with your career? Did you create any industry links or gain any experiences that were beneficial? 

The skills and knowledge I developed during my Master’s studies at the University of Leeds, particularly at the Nuffield Institute for Health, laid a strong foundation for my career in healthcare management and consultancy. The programme equipped me with a rigorous understanding of health systems, policy analysis, and hospital management, which proved invaluable in addressing complex organisational challenges in my later roles. I gained practical experience through case studies, research projects, and exposure to real-world healthcare issues, which helped me bridge theory with practice. Equally important were the professional networks I formed with academics, practitioners, and fellow international students; these connections not only broadened my perspective on global healthcare but also provided industry links that supported my early career. The emphasis on critical thinking, evidence-based management, and leadership at Leeds shaped my approach as a consultant and auditor, enabling me to contribute effectively to hospitals, public health agencies, and accreditation bodies across different regions. 

Now that you’ve graduated, what would you say to students thinking about studying your course, do you believe your investment into the course was worthwhile for your career? 

To students considering studying this course at the University of Leeds, I would strongly encourage them to take the opportunity. The Master’s at the Nuffield Institute for Health provided me with both the academic depth and the practical insight needed to build a successful career in healthcare management and consultancy. The course challenged me to think critically about health systems and organisational performance, while also equipping me with skills directly applicable to real-world practice. Looking back, I believe the investment was entirely worthwhile; the knowledge, experiences, and professional credibility I gained have been central to my career development. It gave me not only the confidence to take on leadership and advisory roles but also the international recognition and professional networks that continue to support my work to this day.