ASG

All Universities in membership of HUMANE are experiencing change. Competition for students and staff is fierce, the expectations of students continue to grow and the financial challenges that underpin success are significant. Change and development reflect an almost constant state.

Some of that change is driven by universities themselves, by Vice-Chancellors and Chairmen who feel that the traditional Registrar or Secretary General role is unsustainable in a modern, expanded University sector. In others, the decline of ‘collegiality’ in university management and governance is giving rise to a new professional executive structure which includes ‘chief operating officers’ and other senior, non-academic managers. Elsewhere, Government’s retain control over Universities and University managers and so legislate to introduce particular organisational and administrative models.

This seminar will explore the impact of these changes on the traditional role of Head of Administration and will facilitate discussion about the qualities, styles and behaviours that are necessary to navigate a successful way through for both established and aspiring colleagues.

Some of the sessions will be factual, explaining the boundaries of influence and control that colleagues face. Other sessions will reflect on that position and will offer interpretations of the challenges, either in particular countries or more generally. A panel involving experts from outside the group (including a University President) will debate the issues raised, facilitating full exploration of the issues.