Case Studies

Higher Education

Queen’s University Belfast Appoints Professor Judith Williams as Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Students

Partners
Queen’s University Belfast
Sector
Higher Education
Location
United Kingdom, Africa & Middle East

Positioned Filled

1 Position

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Students

Candidates Considered

12

Individuals were initially shortlisted for informal consideration

Global Search

8 Nationalities

Perrett Laver undertook a global search across all major markets

About Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)

Since 1845, Queen’s University Belfast staff, students and alumni have made a difference to societies locally, nationally, and internationally.  Today, the Russell Group University is one of the UK and Irelands leading universities and continue to shape and serve the world around us through its research and teaching.  88% of Queen’s staff are engaged in world-leading or internationally excellent research, with the University ranked 202 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.  

Perrett Laver partnered with the Queen’s University Belfast on the appointment of Professor Judith Williams as their next Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Students.

 

Queen’s has always been a generator of knowledge.  The University focuses on tackling the issues faced by individuals and societies at a local, regional, and global level and are an engine of progress that is central to the socio-economic success of Northern Ireland.  When it comes to future graduate employment, Queen’s ranks 12th in the UK, and its contribution to the local and regional economy of Northern Ireland is currently estimated at over three billion pounds annually. 

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Students is a key member of the University Management Board, reporting directly to the Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The individual steers the University’s education strategy, including maintaining oversight of educational performance and ensuring the highest standard of student learning experience. The University was keen to develop innovative approaches to the student lifecycle, with a focus on technology-enhanced learning and flexible educational contexts. The engagement of students as co-creators throughout these strategic priorities was also emphasised.

 

 

Twelve individuals based across seven countries were shortlisted for this role. Three female candidates and two male candidates were brought to formal interview. Professor Judith Williams was appointed, formerly Associate Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Student & Director of the Institute for Teaching and Learning at University of Manchester, and began her term in September 2023.

“Professor Williams was an excellent fit for Queen’s. She brings expertise in pedagogy and is passionate about engaging with and supporting students.”

Michelle Scanlon

Perrett Laver

Managing Partner, Ireland