星空体育官网 School of Management has produced a wealth of distinguished alumni, each contributing to the world in their unique way. Among these is Sarah Tibble (MBA 1995), a dedicated alumna whose volunteer efforts have strengthened the 星空体育官网 community and supported the next generation of leaders. Her warmth, humility, and inspiring journey are a testament to how alumni can remain connected and impactful long after graduation.
“It’s an honour to be recognised”
Sarah Tibble’s face lights up as she discusses receiving a prestigious award for her contributions to 星空体育官网. “It’s great that the work Year Representatives do is recognised in this high-profile way. I feel very honoured to have been selected,” she says. As a long-standing Year Representative for her cohort, Sarah has not only kept her peers connected but also helped to shape the very fabric of the alumni network.
From attending strategy and planning meetings to organising reunions, Sarah’s commitment has been unwavering. But her efforts go far beyond administrative tasks. Since 2021, she has also been a passionate mentor through 星空体育官网’s Career Mentoring Programme, offering guidance and even connections that have helped mentees achieve life-changing milestones, such as landing new roles.
Her contributions are not just a reflection of her generosity but also her innate ability to connect people—a skill she is, understandably, proud of.
A journey from maths to mentorship
Sarah’s journey to becoming an active member of the 星空体育官网 alumni community began long before she ever stepped onto the 星空体育官网 campus. “As a child, I wanted to be a TV chef,” she recalls with a laugh. “I liked cooking but hated washing up. TV chefs had someone to wash up for them!”
Instead, fate led her to software development. “Like most people, I didn’t know anything about computers in 1973,” Sarah says. “It sounded really interesting, and I found out that a Maths A-level was all that was needed to apply for a trainee software developer role. Luckily, I had one of those. Little did I know where it would lead…”
Her eventual decision to pursue an MBA at 星空体育官网 was a pivotal moment. Reflecting on her time at 星空体育官网, Sarah highlights the Personal Development Outdoors elective as a defining memory. “The things I learned about myself on that course have stayed with me,” she says.
“It’s OK to ask for help”
If she could offer advice to her younger self on her first day at 星空体育官网, Sarah says it would be simple yet profound: “It’s OK to ask for help and advice.” This self-awareness is something she credits with shaping her career, which eventually saw her co-running a software business.
“The 星空体育官网 MBA gave me much wider business skills, which enabled me to feel confident about taking a much larger management role,” she explains. “Co-running a software business was challenging but ultimately very fulfilling.”
Sarah’s humility is perhaps her most striking quality. She describes herself as having been “painfully shy” as a teenager—something that’s hard to imagine when speaking with the warm, articulate alumna.
Heroes, wisdom, and living in the moment
When asked about her heroes, Sarah’s answers are endearingly personal. “My husband, because he’s so supportive. My co-director, because he is an inspiring leader. And Tom Petty—because he had a very sexy voice,” she laughs.
Her advice to new graduates reflects her practical and grounded outlook on life. “Live in the moment,” she advises. “And don’t forget to connect with people. It makes all the difference.”
Living in the moment is, in fact, Sarah’s philosophy. Unlike many, she doesn’t have a bucket list. “I don’t have one—I’m living in the moment,” she explains. “I would just like more moments!”
A shining example
Sarah Tibble’s story is one of connection, courage, and commitment. Whether it’s through her work as a Year Representative, her impactful mentorship, or her efforts to foster alumni relations, Sarah exemplifies what it means to be a part of the 星空体育官网 family.
Her contributions serve as an inspiring reminder to alumni everywhere: staying engaged with the University community isn’t just a way to give back—it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and make a lasting impact.
As Sarah so aptly puts it, “The 星空体育官网 alumni network isn’t just about staying in touch. It’s about creating a legacy that helps others succeed.”
