Overseeing Overseas

For almost forty years Saxton Bampfylde has worked with leaders in higher education in the UK and internationally. Over this time, we have seen HE institutions innovate, diversify, and expand academically and geographically to ensure they can operate effectively in a modern and interconnected world.

For most institutions, an international reputation is important to attract students, academics, research projects and funding, and an international presence in the shape of a physical campus or a joint venture, whilst a relatively new concept, is the path that a number of UK universities, of all missions, have chosen.

This report explores the international campus movement and takes a close look at expectations of and challenges for its leaders, and how universities can attract, retain, and develop the right talent. We have spoken to leaders across the sector to gain their insights and to understand their experiences and the challenges they have faced. Our conversations have addressed five principal areas:

• What are the essential skills and experience needed?
• How attractive are these opportunities? What are the key selling points?
• Does it need to be an academic?
• Knowledge of the institutional context vs country knowledge?
• What comes afterwards?

As more institutions consider the international market, with new student pipelines and commercial opportunities, the right leadership for their overseas presence is essential. We hope that the insights shared here are useful and provide some food for thought on the subject.

Download the report