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Oct. 22, 2020

Durham University MSc Finance graduate adapts business for Covid-19

Durham University Business SchoolA Durham University MSc Finance graduate has implemented a strategic change in his business to adapt to Covid-19.

Tom Shanks is Finance Director for Blueline Taxis, a successful North East (England) based firm, founded 60+ years ago by his grandparents. Aged 25, Tom recently graduated from Durham University Business School with an MSc Finance, but never thought he’d face such challenging times so early in his career.

As the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Tom and the Blueline team immediately started working on how to support their much-valued staff, drivers and wider community.

With strong values embedded throughout, this family business doesn’t see their staff simply as a resource; they care deeply for their wellbeing and offer much support. So, with the majority of the population told to stay indoors, Blueline quickly changed strategy to protect their team and help their community.

Durham Business School Graduate

Tom says: “It’s been rather emotional to see how our family values really have been visible within our organisation. We always hear that ‘the proof is in the pudding’ and if that’s right, our team have shown us that they’re worthy of a Michelin star. They have shown teamwork, compassion and a support system far greater than I could have ever imagined.”

He continues, “My education from the School, and University experience as a whole, has proved indispensable in helping me attempt to construct some form of Covid-19 support network for the regional economy and community.”

Three of the key activities Blueline Taxis implemented:

1 Created a £25,000 fund to enable NHS workers to get to work
2 Shifted the primary service from transporting people to delivering essential goods
3 Changed the fee structure for drivers

With a world changed from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s now more important than ever to gain the skills and knowledge required to pursue a successful career in an ever-changing global business environment.

Now available with a January 2021 start date, learn more about Durham University Business School’s MSc Finance and other masters courses.

Looking for funding for postgraduate studies? Check out the exclusive bursaries on offer from Postgrad Solutions.  

Content added on 22nd October 2020. 

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