It\u2019s hard to believe that it\u2019s been almost two years since I began my journey as a member of the Board of Governors \u2013 and what a journey it has been.
\nI can\u2019t say I chose the easiest time to join the Board, but I certainly picked one of the most interesting. This role has given me a unique insight into the inner workings of the University, as well as the challenges and successes we face on a daily basis.
\nAs you\u2019ll be aware, the Board has had to make some incredibly difficult decisions over the past 18 months. The financial challenges facing Edge Hill are not unique \u2013 they are being felt across the entire higher education sector, though it should be noted that the University is in a better position than many others. Through my role, I\u2019ve been able to see the broader picture and gain an understanding of how other institutions are navigating these turbulent times. While the Board is not involved in the day-to-day running of the University, it is responsible for making the tough decisions that ensure we remain financially sustainable and, most importantly, continue to put our students at the heart of everything we do.
\nI know the past few months have brought a great deal of uncertainty for colleagues, and like many others, I\u2019m saddened to see so many valued members of staff leaving at the end of this month. The decision to implement the Voluntary Severance Scheme (VSS) was not taken lightly. As a member of staff who could be affected by the scheme, it was only right that my fellow staff governors and I were excluded from those specific discussions. However, we were fully briefed and reassured that the decision, while difficult, was made with the University\u2019s best interests at heart.
\nWe have, however, been involved in discussions around the Professional Services Review (PSR), and staff governors have had the opportunity to share their views. I\u2019ve listened carefully to both the Board\u2019s deliberations and the concerns raised by colleagues. Personally, I see this as a valuable opportunity for the University to take stock and reset. A comprehensive review of roles is arguably long overdue. Systems and services have evolved rapidly over the past decade, often in isolation. The PSR presents a chance to learn from one another, share best practice, and streamline where appropriate. While this may be a positive step for some, I understand that others are feeling anxious. I\u2019ve raised these concerns with both the Board and the Executive team, and have received assurances that the review will be conducted with the University\u2019s stakeholders best interests at its core such that we achieve the right balance between effective student services, efficient processes, and financial sustainability. Staff voices will be heard, and communication will be further enhanced to ensure everyone is kept informed and knows how to engage with the process.
\nSince my last blog, we\u2019ve said farewell to the legacy of JC. I owe my academic and professional journey in higher education to Edge Hill, and John played a pivotal role in many of the initiatives that brought \u2013 and kept \u2013 me here. I am deeply grateful for his contributions.
\nFollowing John\u2019s departure, we were fortunate to have Lynda step in as Interim Vice-Chancellor. I\u2019m sure colleagues will agree that she steered the ship through stormy waters with great composure. Her openness with both staff and the Board about the challenges we faced helped to secure the trust and support of the entire University community. Despite the difficulties, I believe we all felt the University was in safe hands.
\nNow, as we enter a new era under Michael\u2019s leadership, I\u2019ve been impressed by what I\u2019ve seen so far. I was honoured to be involved in the selection process and to observe one of the interview tasks. Michael stood out immediately \u2013 calm, rational, and clearly committed to making decisions in the best interests of both students and staff. His CV reflects extensive experience in navigating challenging periods in higher education, and his early contributions to the Board of Governors demonstrated his deep knowledge and passion for the sector. He has a clear understanding of the issues facing Edge Hill and the wider sector, and I\u2019m confident that the new 2026\u20132030 University Strategy will reflect his vision, passion, and commitment to leading Edge Hill into the future.
\nHe also has great taste in ties and was sporting a very corporate number to the Board of Governors! <\/p>\n
Since drafting this blog, we have received the positive NSS results \u2014 a sign of the progress being made across the University.
\nThe Board has been reviewing ongoing efforts to improve the student experience, and these outcomes reflect that work and create a firm base from which to effect further improvements in future years .
\nThe Board would like to say thank you to all involved \u2014 your contributions are appreciated.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
It\u2019s hard to believe that it\u2019s been almost two years since I began my journey as a member of the Board of Governors \u2013 and what a journey it has been. I can\u2019t say I chose the easiest time to join the Board, but I certainly picked one of the most interesting. This role has […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":120,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-39","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"\n