New Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) appointed

An appointment has been made in the vacant Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) role to support the University’s vital international goals, including important student recruitment objectives.

Dr Caroline Baylon will take up the role on 1 August 2023. She joins Reading from the University of Bristol, where she was Director International and was responsible for the delivery of that university’s strategic international objectives.

Dr Baylon will lead Reading’s work to improve our global engagement and reputation. This will include the international student recruitment strategy and work to improve its global engagement, international profile and reputation, particularly in regions where we know there are strong growth opportunities for Reading.

Increased international student recruitment is crucial part of the University’s objectives to continue to grow and become more financially sustainable. This is even more critical as we face challenging external economic pressures, such as high inflation.

'Key figure'

Dr Baylon said: “I am delighted and honoured to be joining the University of Reading. It is a university that is well positioned to make significant further advances in the years ahead.

"I very much look forward to working with colleagues and students across the University to ensure that our internationalisation and global engagement activities make a meaningful and ongoing contribution to the success and reputation of the institution."

Dr Baylon brings substantial experience in international student recruitment, including providing prospective students with a smooth pathway to university and enhancing the experience of international students in the UK. She has a strong track record of managing and forging new international connections and partnerships.

At Reading, Dr Baylon will be a member of the University Executive Board and will be tasked with other strategically important areas like transnational educational partnerships and establishing international research collaborations and funding opportunities. She will have responsibility for the University of Reading Malaysia business plan and other international ventures.

Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “Caroline brings an array of experience and knowledge to the University. She will be a key figure as we look to respond to enhance our global reputation and build our international profile, particularly in support of international student recruitment and experience.”

Dr Baylon assumes the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) role from Paul Inman, who retired in November 2022.