Interim Director of Student Experience and Education

An interim appointment has been made to the post of Director of Student Experience and Education, to fill the vacancy being left by the outgoing Matthew White.

Alex Slater will join the University from Loughborough Business School, at Loughborough University, where she is Programme Director for the School’s transformation programme, delivering its strategy and driving reputation and success. In addition to undertaking leadership roles in various sectors, Alex has worked with several universities to improve the student experience offer.

She joins on an 18-month contract commencing 17 June 2024.

In her Head of Directorate role, Alex will oversee Student Services, Campus Commerce and CQSD. These teams support the educational experiences and living environment of our students in a variety of ways – ranging from academic programme design and delivery, support for wellbeing and careers, through to provision of catering, accommodation and sports facilities which are used by staff too.

Vice-Chancellor Robert Van de Noort said: “This is a vitally important role at a time when we are looking to increase our student intake while ensuring they have a positive experience when they arrive.

“Making an interim appointment has allowed us to act swiftly to bring in someone with extensive knowledge of the wider higher education sector and of leading strategic change.

“The appointment term will also cover the transition period for the new Directorates model, meaning Alex can be part of the conversations about establishing a more sustainable long-term Professional Services structure.”

Alex said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the University at this exciting time. Reading offers an excellent, all round experience to students during their higher education journey so I’m looking forward to working with colleagues to build on these successes.”

Given the diversity across the Student Experience and Education Directorate, an internal appointment will be made to fill the vacant Director of Campus Commerce role after Matthew departs.

This will be funded through the Directorate budget and provide ongoing specialist leadership in this area while the Heads of Directorate continue work to hone the new Directorates structure and deliver against savings targets from 2025/26.