Past, present and future with Saxton Bampfylde
I first joined Saxton Bampfylde as an intern in 2017 during my university summer break and then returned as a researcher the following summer. I spent four years in the research team, including a stint as Research Team Leader and six months with our Panorama partners, Executive Access in Delhi. For the last 18 months, I have been an associate consultant in our public services and regulation practice, learning the ropes of all things consulting. I’m excited to now be joining our higher education team.
You have recently joined the higher education practice, previously working in the public services and regulation team. How do you expect the areas to differ, and indeed what commonalities do you expect?
The public services and regulation practice is highly process-oriented. Our government clients, in particular, often have strict processes to adhere to, for example requiring ministerial sign off on a shortlist. Therefore, candidate care is very important as we need to explain the nuances of public appointment processes clearly. However, I won’t be moving too far from this world given the overlap between our higher education and public services work, for example government chief scientific adviser appointments.
What are you most looking forward to in working with universities and other higher education organisations?
As someone who has benefited from higher education like so many others, I am looking forward to engaging closely with a sector that impacts the experience of millions of students each year.
What are the evolving areas of leadership that make you excited about the future?
As in many industries, data-driven leadership is becoming increasingly important for higher education institutions. Having the tools to track and analyse trends in enrolment and student performance, for example, will be important when shaping future strategy. It’ll be interesting to hear how much of a priority this is to leaders in the sector.
What is your one desert island luxury?
A Spotify subscription – everything is a little better with music!
Describe your experience of executive search in three words
Constant learning, rewarding, busy!
