Isabel Rechberg, PhD

Dr. Isabel Rechberg completed her PhD in Management at Kent Business School in 2013. She then moved to New York, where she worked at the City University of New York for seven years, advancing from assistant to associate professor. Currently, Isabel is an Associate Professor of Management at Regis University and a Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation. 

Her academic career includes numerous research presentations and awards. Isabel is dedicated to empowering her students through interactive courses and career coaching.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

After I finished my PhD at the Kent Business School I moved to New York and worked at the City University of New York for seven years, I since then have joined Regis University as an Associate Professor of Management. In addition, I am a Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation. 

What does a typical work day look like for you? 

During the semester the focus is on my students. I teach course in Management, Leadership and Organizational Behaviour. I design interactive course for undergrad and graduate students, where we analyse students work experience to create practical approaches to integrate theory into practical. In further, I coach my students on I identifying their desired career path.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far? 

Being hired into a tenure track academic position at the City University of New York and being promoted from assistant to associate professor; Presenting my research at the Academy of Management, the European Academy of Management and the Easter Academy of Management; Being the recipient of paper awards and most downloaded article of the year awards; Being hired by Regis University; Being certified, as a Career Coach, by the International Coaching Federation.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

My education at Kent set the foundation necessary for me to progress on an academic career path.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Trust in time. Getting papers published is time consuming and it is easy to lose hope. Know the explanations, conduct research on topics truly of interest to you, collaborate, attend conferences, and know that the answer lies in time. Teach your courses in a way that fits your unique style, there is not one best way of doing it. Student feedback is instantaneous allowing you to adopt and adjust. Be authentic and don’t compare yourself with others, you are a role model to your students, and what better lesson for them to learn than that it is ok to be themselves. 

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

Yes! I was the PhD student representative for Kent Business School.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

My friends, Canterbury, the walks to campus, the professors that taught me so much.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

I wish I knew then what I know now to manage stress, anxiety and doubt as a PhD student better.

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics? 

Of course! I made the most meaningful connections during my studies at Kent.

What are your future ambitions?

I want to continue to inform and empower my students, do meaningful research and coach more to further serve young adults.