Executive Insights: Studying Logistics and Supply Chain While Leading a Business

Q&A with Rory Comerford, Managing Director, Capcon Limited

“I chose to study the part-time Executive Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc at Cranfield to advance my career and gain a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving sector that is vital to global business success.”

Could you share a little bit about you and your background?

I’m the Managing Director at Capcon Limited. We’re a specialist provider of logistics and materials handling solutions, working with centralised distribution operations, leading retailers and dairy businesses. Our focus is on helping clients to stay compliant with health and safety regulations while streamlining their operations to drive greater efficiency and performance.

Can you talk me through a typical week as Managing Director at Capcon?

Each day is different, but the mornings are spent ensuring everything is running smoothly and in the afternoon it could be a myriad of things such as, dealing with China on production times, updating key customers on deliveries, meeting with the sales team to discuss the orders and the sales pipeline, making sure the accounts are up to date or just good old firefighting!

What inspired you to pursue the part-time Executive Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc at Cranfield School of Management?

I wanted to advance my career and deepen my expertise in this sector that is rapidly evolving and critical to global business success. Cranfield’s Executive Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc stood out due to its strong industry reputation, practical focus, and the calibre of its faculty. The part-time, primarily online format also offered the ideal balance – enabling me to continue working full-time while immediately applying the new insights and strategies in my role as Managing Director. This integration of theory and practice has been invaluable in helping me contribute more effectively to my organisation and position myself for future leadership opportunities.

Why did you choose to study at Cranfield University?

Cranfield came highly recommended to me by respected peers in the industry. I also liked that it has a strong reputation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.  But for me what truly sets Cranfield apart is the university’s leading academics, the strong links with business and its emphasis on real-world application. The opportunity to learn from leading academics and my fellow peers while engaging with current industry challenges made it the ideal choice for advancing my knowledge and skills in this sector.

How have you benefited from studying a master’s degree at Cranfield?

The MSc programme has supported my career development in several significant ways. It has deepened my industry knowledge, enhanced my strategic thinking, and given me the tools to develop frameworks and solutions that help move the business forward. Perhaps most importantly, it has boosted my confidence, particularly in engaging with senior-level clients, and equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed to step into a Managing Director role.

I also benefited from the calibre of the teaching. The lecturers were not only academics but also industry professionals, who brought real-world relevance to every module. I also gained a great deal from my peers on the executive programme – fellow professionals who shared diverse perspectives and practical insights that added depth to the learning.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying a part-time MSc programme?

My advice would be to absolutely go for it. While it’s a significant commitment, the rewards – both personal and professional are well worth the effort. It can feel a little daunting at first, especially when balancing work and study, but you won’t be on the journey alone. Cranfield offers a strong support network, from experienced lecturers and a collaborative cohort to excellent student services, including the library, IT support and academic resources.

The opportunity to apply what you learn in real time to your professional role makes the experience incredibly impactful. If you’re looking to grow, challenge yourself, and take your career to the next level, a part-time MSc at Cranfield is a decision you won’t regret.

To find out more about our part-time Executive Logistics and Supply Chain MSc, please visit  Executive Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc