My Brilliant Career: Balancing academic rigour with practical relevance

What does the academic dean of Regent do?

I am responsible for overseeing the academic vision, quality and innovation of our programmes. This includes ensuring that our teaching and learning are aligned with international best practice, accreditation standards, and the needs of our students and industry partners. I lead teams of lecturers, researchers and academic administrators, guiding everything from curriculum design and delivery to research output and the integration of new technologies like AI into education.

What do you think makes you good at your job?

I believe my strength lies in balancing academic rigour with practical relevance. Having experienced both corporate life and higher education, I understand the bridge that needs to be built between theory and application. I am deeply curious, always learning, and not afraid to challenge traditional ways of doing things if they no longer serve our students or society. I also thrive on collaboration, bringing people together across disciplines and institutions, and I never lose sight of the human element.

How did you end up doing this work?

My journey was far from linear. I began in the banking, management consulting and legal sectors, drawn by their complexity and prestige, but over time I realised that the corporate world often resisted innovation and was not always kind to those who tried to bring fresh perspectives. I was drawn to academia rather than having turned towards it, and found it to be the space where my passion for ideas, learning and transformation truly belonged.

What do you look for when recruiting for your team?

I look for curiosity, resilience and a sense of purpose. Qualifications and technical expertise are important, but what excites me is someone who asks good questions, who is adaptable, and who sees education not just as a job but as a calling. I value diversity of thought and background, because it enriches the academic community and ensures we serve our students more effectively. I gel best with those that view their work as a lifelong project.

What advice do you have for young people at the start of their careers?

First, don’t be discouraged if your career path isn’t linear — most meaningful journeys are not. Mine certainly was not. Second, invest in lifelong learning: the world is changing too quickly for any of us to rely on one qualification or one skill set. Finally, own your story. Don’t wait for titles or permission before you lead; you can lead from any seat if you bring courage, integrity and vision to what you do.