Meet the Programme Director for the King's online Global Human Resource Management MSc, Dr Penny Simpson.
Read on to discover more about Penny’s academic background, why she enjoys teaching online, and her advice to people considering this master's programme.
Can you tell us about your role on the Global Human Resource Management programme?
Hi, I am the Programme Director of the GHRM programme. I have been involved in the programme right from its inception, through all the design and development stages, where I worked closely with our module lead academics, learning designers and digital teams. As Programme Director, I now work closely with the module leads, the Deputy Programme Director (An), the programme team and the student success advisors to help ensure all students are enabled to succeed on the programme.
In addition to teaching on other master's and undergraduate programmes, I lead the HRM in Practice and Research and Consulting Skills modules on the GHRM programme.
What’s your academic and career background? What is your specialism?
My degrees reflect my longstanding interest in HR and academia. My first degree was a BSc in Geography from Durham University, where I specialised in Human Geography. I then completed an MSc in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management at the London School of Economics and an MA in Cultural and Critical Theory (Philosophy and Critical Theory) at the University of Brighton.
I am very proud to be a King's alumna, having earned my PhD in Management Studies from King's College London. Before becoming an academic, I worked in industry in both the UK and Australia as an HR Manager, HR Consultant and Organisational Development Manager. These roles helped me develop significant cross-cultural experience.
At King's, I specialise in HRM education and teaching HRM, leadership, change, consulting and reflective practice. I particularly draw on my academic and practitioner HR background to help students apply theory to practice.
How did you come to be involved with GHRM?
From the initial idea for the programme, I was keen to be involved. It was an opportunity to design and develop a leading-edge programme. I have led the academic design and development of the programme from the beginning, guiding it through the approvals process while working closely with King's Digital.
The programme launched in September 2024. As a new programme, we have been able to create a curriculum informed by professional body standards, particularly those of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This is very exciting, and I am looking forward to our first graduations in January 2027.
What are the key points prospective students considering applying should know about GHRM?
We are very proud of this master's programme and believe it is genuinely leading-edge. Take a look at what we offer and see whether the modules and content appeal to you. We have some modules, such as Responsible HR and Sustainability and HR Data and Analytics, that may not be offered elsewhere and could strengthen your long-term employability.
You will get out of the programme what you put into it, so come ready to contribute and share your experiences with your global cohort. King's is a fantastic community, and I encourage you to embrace the opportunities available to learn, develop and broaden your global mindset. This will create a rich learning experience that stays with you long after graduation.
How will it help elevate people’s careers?
Linked to my previous answer, I strongly encourage all students to embrace the opportunities to learn and gain new experiences while at King's. We have designed a programme focused on building your knowledge, skills and competencies in HRM.
Most importantly, we nurture a growth mindset and a global outlook, not just within the programme but across the university. While we cannot predict what the future holds, we are proud that the GHRM programme prepares you to develop your career and remain adaptable to the future direction of HRM.
How do you find teaching online differs from on-campus teaching, and where is it the same?
Online teaching allows students to choose when and how they engage with their learning. This requires commitment, dedication and self-motivation. In contrast, on-campus study is often more visible, so we have support systems in place to help online learners if needed.
We also encourage students to connect with their peers and build strong online networks, enabling them to feel part of a supportive learning community throughout their studies.
Where online and on-campus teaching are alike is in our commitment to inspiring learning. At master's level, much learning is self-directed, and we are keen to encourage students to explore the areas of HR that interest them most.
And finally, a bit about you. How do you relax after a hard day?
I love running and am part of an amazing running community where I live. I have progressed from running 5km races to marathons and even an ultramarathon. I also enjoy volunteering at running events, including parkruns, and have raised money for charity. Community service is something I value highly.
What’s been one of your most rewarding memories from teaching at King's?
Focusing on myself first, some of my favourite memories involve being nominated for and winning awards for doing what I love. I have been nominated for multiple teaching and education awards and was delighted to receive the King's Business School Dean's Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education in 2025. In April 2026, An, the Deputy Programme Director, and I also received King's Digital's Student Experience Excellence Award.
When I think about students, my most rewarding memories come from attending graduation ceremonies. Every student has their own story, motivations and challenges. As I watch them receive their awards, I reflect on the journey they have taken to reach that moment. Seeing the outcome of their hard work and celebrating their achievement is incredibly rewarding.
