Operations SIG
About the Operations SIG
This SIG is a network and “safe space” for staff working in Operations (or subsets/adjacent areas) at all levels, from entry-level Operations through to Director of Faculty or College Operations. Operations is often a very varied and hard-to-define area of activity and the nature of work in Operations means that a lot of activity goes on behind the scenes – it’s not an area of work which is often celebrated or spotlighted, although the value of Operations is not in doubt.
Operations is a hugely varied area of work and thus can be extremely rewarding – but it can also be overwhelming for new and experienced colleagues alike. The SIG is intended to connect Operations professionals, broaden their network and give them the opportunity to share insights and guidance in a safe and empathetic space committed to mutual support and professional development.
What can you expect from the Operations SIG?
– Operations staff often need a surface level of knowledge across a broad range of subject matters including the worlds of both research and education, and this SIG will provide staff with the “bite-size” knowledge and understanding they need across various areas, as well as giving staff a sense of the skills that are beneficial for a career or advancement in Operations.
– Taking the AHEP Professional Framework’s “Working Together”, “Engaging with the Wider Context” and “Empowering Professional Development”, this SIG connects professionals in a shared space where they can exchange advice and ideas, and share common frustrations and concerns in a safe and empathetic space.
– The group will offer the opportunity to learn from specialists and reflect on sessions and resources collaboratively.
To access more information and become a member of this SIG, sign into your AHEP account. Not an AHEP member? Join now!
Meet the Coordinators
David Duell, Operations SIG Lead Coordinator
Head of Operations, Academic Registrar’s Office
University of Birmingham
David leads the Academic Registrar’s Office at the University of Birmingham – a team which covers operations management for Academic Services, executive support and strategic support to the Academic Registrar and their Senior Leadership Team, and a portfolio of project and working group activity across Academic Services and the five academic Colleges. David and his team also oversee people, culture and community activity across the Academic Services division. David makes a mean cocktail, enjoys fencing (the sport) and cinema, and is always extremely happy to see pets join MS Teams meetings.
Louise Savage, Operations Deputy Coordinator
Head of Operations, School of Education
University of Nottingham
Louise is responsible for a team of school based operational staff responsible for Education and Student Experience, Research and Knowledge Exchange and Core Operations and is part of the School and Faculty Senior Leadership Team. Louise has worked in HE since 2014 holding a number of roles across Professional Services Departments and Schools. Louise is passionate about service excellence and developing teams and individuals. Outside of work, Louise can often be found on the sidelines of muddy rugby pitches supporting her sons and is at her happiest when on a pair of skis.
Nikki Kelly, Operations Deputy Coordinator
Operations Manager, Imperial Enterprise Lab
Imperial College London
Nikki leads on Operations at the Imperial Enterprise Lab with a focus on Finance, HR, Data Collection and Reporting, Health & Safety and Continuous Improvement of processes. A qualified Coach, Nikki has worked in HE since 2008 and has held positions across several operational functions, within central teams and at department level, including, Research Services, Management Accounts and Projects. Outside of work, Nikki can be found doing anything from riding her motorcycle to reading a good book and longs to try one of David’s cocktails (Not simultaneously of course).