Jan can support SUMS members as  a consultant, coach, reviewer, advisor and working partner, supporting effective practice, positive culture and behaviours, organisational capability and organisational performance.

She adopts a solutions-focussed approach, strongly advocating inclusivity, creativity, dialogue and collaboration. Jan brings significant experience in HE governance, as Vice-Chair of a Russell Group institution and member of the governing body of a specialist provider.

Jan has had a long and fulfilling career working in education and research, initially in further and higher education leadership, before joining the UK Research Councils in 2003. Starting in Arts and Humanities, she then moved to the Biotech and Bioscience Research Council (BBSRC).

In 2012 Jan was appointed Executive Director of People and Development for BBSRC, which encompassed HR, organisational development, EDI, health, safety and wellbeing, pension scheme management and corporate governance, and was concurrently HR Director for Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).

Jan led and supported the significant change and transformation work in the transition to UKRI.

How has Jan supported higher education institutions?

  • consulted with a leadership team for a transformation programme, using large and small group interventions to create capacity, momentum and behaviours to deliver programme outcomes and embed new ways of working
  • undertook an independent external review of the governance and leadership of a small and specialist independent HE provider, providing assurance and developing maturity. Followed up with leadership development and individual coaching to build culture and capability
  • partnered with a research institute, initially to develop the research culture strategy, using data and insights from focus groups and workshops. Supported the embedding of the institute research culture, supporting and working with the leadership team to develop plans, programmes, engagement and dialogue across the organisation.

Beyond her diverse professional work, Jan practices yoga, enjoys arts and creativity, and is happiest with a good book or absorbing podcast.

Connect with Jan on LinkedIn