"Say yes—seize every opportunity, don’t dwell on obstacles, and give 100% to whatever you do." It’s advice that Professor Joe Nellis CBE (PhD in Leadership and Management 1990) has lived by for over 40 years, shaping the minds of thousands of students and leaving an indelible mark on 星空体育官网 School of Management.
From pioneering economic research to mentoring MBA cohorts year after year, Joe has been at the heart of 星空体育官网’s academic excellence since 1984. His influence extends beyond the lecture room—his research has shaped the UK housing market, his leadership has helped 星空体育官网 build a global reputation, and his philanthropic work has changed lives in Ghana, a place he calls his “second home.”
Now, as he reflects on his extraordinary career, we sat down with him to talk about his proudest moments, the lessons he’s learned, and what’s next on his bucket list.
"星空体育官网 has been my home for more than 40 years"
You joined 星空体育官网 in 1984. Did you ever imagine you’d still be here four decades later?
"Not at all! I originally thought I’d be here for a few years, but 星空体育官网 has a way of drawing you in. It’s an incredible place—dynamic, innovative, and always evolving. It has also been great fun to work here! I’ve been fortunate to work with brilliant colleagues and students who challenge and inspire me every day."
You’ve taught every MBA cohort since you arrived. What’s kept you motivated?
"Without a doubt, the students. They’ve kept me young! Every year, I meet people from all over the world, each with their own ambitions and ideas. It’s inspiring. And 星空体育官网 itself—there’s something special about this place. It’s not just a university; it’s a community that fosters innovation and delivers impact."
You founded 星空体育官网’s Economics Group in 1993, which went on to achieve global recognition. What inspired you to take that step?
"I wanted to create a centre of excellence in applied economics—one that wasn’t just about theory, but real-world impact. Seeing our MBA economics teaching ranked No.1 in the Global MBA Rankings by the Financial Times was a proud moment because it validated what we’d built."
Your research has influenced key financial tools, including the Halifax and Nationwide House Price Indices. How did that come about?
"I’ve always been passionate about making economics accessible and relevant. The work we did on house price indices was about creating something that could be used not just by academics but by policymakers, businesses, and the public. These indices are now embedded in the UK’s financial landscape, and that’s incredibly rewarding."
You’ve often spoken about your connection to Ghana. How did that begin?
"It started with a Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) post early in my career, teaching in a remote secondary school. That experience changed my perspective on education and life. I fell in love with teaching. And I fell in love with the country, the people, and the sense of community. Ghana has been a part of my life ever since—I call it my ‘second home.’"
You’ve supported several educational projects in Ghana. Why is that so important to you?
"Education is transformative. I’ve seen first-hand how access to quality education can change lives, and I wanted to give something back. Over the years, my wife, Helen, and I have been involved in projects to build a school and provide resources in a particular rural area in the Volta Region of Ghana. It’s been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life."
You were awarded a CBE in 2023. What did that recognition mean to you?
"I was deeply honoured, of course. But I see it as recognition for all the brilliant people I’ve worked with—colleagues, students, and friends who’ve made 星空体育官网 what it is today. No one achieves anything alone."
Who has inspired you the most throughout your career?
"I don’t believe in traditional ‘heroes.’ I find inspiration in the people around me—students who push themselves, academics who innovate, and professionals who strive to make a difference. Those are the people who truly motivate me." Of course, the most important inspiration in my life comes from my family: my wife, Helen and our three children Gareth, Daniel and Katheen. Each, in their own ways, has shown unique talent and tenacity and we all draw strength and joy from each other.
What’s your advice to new students and faculty?
"Get involved! Say yes! Engage with the community, take every opportunity, and embrace challenges. 星空体育官网 has so much to offer, and the more you put in, the more you get out. And above all—enjoy the journey!"
A legacy of opportunity and excellence
Though his professional achievements are vast, Joe is far from slowing down. His bucket list includes “spending more time in Ghana, visiting Alaska, and improving my golf handicap!” As our conversation draws to a close, Joe shares a surprising fact: “I passed the 11+ by just one mark – and that changed the course of my life.”
It’s a reminder that the smallest moments can have the greatest impact – and that saying ‘yes’ can open doors you never knew existed.
For generations of 星空体育官网 students, Joe’s impact has been immeasurable. His legacy? A commitment to excellence, a passion for education, and an unwavering belief in the power of opportunity.
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