Business School director of executive programmes Dr Andrew Simpson said: “Now more than ever is the time to invest in your staff – they are, after all, your most valuable asset. Indeed, as the new global climate places increasing competitive pressures on all organisations, the required response may not be the tried and tested formulas of yesterday.

“By comparison, what organisations need are staff that are confident, appropriately skilled and able to face this challenging environment head on.”

Vouchers can be used toward studying for the part-time MBA course, which Dr Simpson says is a valuable way of equipping people with the skills needed to navigate a business through the downturn. “The need to produce high calibre graduates with a business-centric approach and a wealth of transferable know-how is of paramount importance,” he said.

To attend, register with Ruth Warwick, tel: (0191) 243 0855 or email Ruth.Warwick@newcastle.ac.uk. Places are limited.