International Education Sustainability Group, Australia.  John Crick has joined the team at International Education Sustainability Group as partnerships director UK for the Climate Action Barometer for international education. John joins the International Education Sustainability Group after five years at Enroly, where he was in the role of director of Enroly services and compliance. Prior to his time at Enroly, he was at the SAE Institute as director of international student recruitment, and previously as a marketing director. Speaking of his new role, he said: “Having established a Founders Group of prominent Australian and NZ universities for the Climate Action Barometer, we are now doing the same for forward-looking universities here in the UK. If you’d like to know more about what we’re doing or you’d just like to have a chat about sustainability issues affecting our sector, please get in touch!”

TechnologyOne UK, UK. Iain Murray has started a new position as a corporate account manager at TechnologyOne UK, which supports SaaS solutions and aims to make life simple for higher education and local government institutions. He joins the company after three years working at the Estonian higher education technology outfit DreamApply, where he was in the role of head of global sales. Iain said upon the news of his hiring at TechnologyOneUK: “My next step has taken twelve months of patience to make sure that the role and company are the correct fit and with Technology One they easily ticked all the boxes. The technology landscape in education is changing and I can’t wait to get out and catch up with new and existing relationships and share how Technology One is disrupting the market.”

Avant Assessment, US. Robert (Bob) Davis has recently joined the team at Avant Assessment as director of international pathways. Avant Assessment develops and delivers language proficiency solutions that improve language teaching and learning including computer-adaptive proficiency assessments in 45+ languages, professional learning for educators, and remote proctoring. This new role at the organisation focuses on creating pathways for global learners which recognise and celebrate their multi-lingual skills. Bob previously served as global CEO of Mandarin Matrix and executive director of the College Board’s International Division. Bob has worked and studied in China and has overseen partnerships between US and Chinese education entities which foster collaboration and mutual understanding. Bob is based in Chicago and has served as manager of World Languages and International Studies programs at Chicago Public Schools, as well as China advisor to the former Mayor Richard M. Daley. “I am thrilled to join Avant and to expand their global footprint.”

University of Central Lancashire, UK. Ula Tang-Plowman has recently finished her post at the University of Nottingham where she was the deputy director of international student recruitment and started her new role as the director of international recruitment at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), where she focuses on delivering the university’s international ambition on sustainability and diversity for the university. With a rich background as an international student and as the first university graduate in her family, Ula remains a passionate advocate for the transformative potential of UK higher education. Beyond her professional role, Ula is the founder of the British Universities’ China Association (BUCA), an initiative she established from scratch, demonstrating her commitment to fostering international educational connections. She also actively participates as a member of the BUILA Executive and chairs the China Regional Interest Group.

NCUK, UK. NCUK has announced the appointment of Andrew Howells MCIM as its new chief marketing officer. With more than 15 years of experience in senior marketing roles in higher education, Andrew brings a wealth of expertise and a track record of significant accomplishments to this critical role. Before joining NCUK, Andrew served as the Assistant Director for External Affairs at Universities UK International (UUKi), a sector body representing 140 UK universities. His prior roles also include senior positions in marketing, student recruitment, and alumni relations at the University of Southampton and Royal Holloway, University of London. “We are thrilled to welcome Andy to the NCUK team,” said Stuart Smith, CEO of NCUK. “His deep understanding of the higher education sector, combined with his proven ability to lead successful marketing campaigns, makes him an invaluable addition to our organisation. We look forward to the significant contributions he will undoubtedly make as we continue to connect international students with world-class universities.”

Sannam S4, India. Sagar Bahadur, a leader in educational business solutions, was recently appointed as the executive director for India & South Asia at Acumen, part of the Sannam S4 group. He aims to align seamlessly with Acumen’s commitment to global expansion and strategic innovation. His endeavours include the successful launch of Gradstar Global Education in 2022, achieving over 40 international collaborations and significant revenue milestones. With an 8-year tenure at Amity Education Group, he facilitated the establishment of multiple global campuses. Notably, Sagar revamped the University of Queensland’s India strategy, setting a benchmark for similar projects. He has been recognised through prestigious awards, including BW BusinessWorld 40under40 2020 and the Philip Kotler Award. He said of his new role: “My journey harmonises organically with Acumen’s commitments to the sector, especially magnifying partnerships with governments, corporations, and educational institutions. I’m eager to work with and support international clients in achieving successful endeavours within South Asia.”

Malvern International, UK. Malvern International recently announced the appointment of Stephen Harvey as its chief development officer on Wednesday. In the role, Harvey would be responsible for expanding its global network of university and higher education partnerships. Stephen has 40 years of experience in the global education sector, and will bring a wealth of expertise to his new position. He’s also served as non-executive director at Sannam S4, founder and global managing director of Cambridge Education Group’s ‘Oncampus’ higher education pathways division, head of higher education advisory services at KPMG UK, and project manager at the UK Department for Education’s strategy and innovation unit. Stephen had also served as the UK managing director of Study Group and currently held the trustee position at Cumberland Lodge. “I am extremely pleased to welcome Stephen to Malvern,” said chief executive officer Richard Mace. “As a leading authority in our industry, Steve’s extensive experience and network will be invaluable to the next stage of Malvern’s development as we look to expand our university partnerships.”

The Ambassador Platform, Global. Arthur Lane has recently accepted the role of VP, partnerships (North America) with The Ambassador Platform, a leading peer-to-peer student recruitment platform recently acquired by IDP. Artie’s mission will be to spread the word on how peer-to-peer is reshaping international and domestic student recruitment, with a special focus on partnering with internal marketing teams to drive every part of the student journey toward enrolment. Artie’s experience in the higher education space includes previous engagements at Cialfo, IntelliBoard, and teaching assignments at various colleges and continuing education teams across Ontario, Canada. Speaking of his new role, he said: “I’m looking forward to visiting with our valued clients, and meeting new potential partners, especially over the next month or two. Let me know if we can chat about your student recruitment and marketing needs!”

University of Buffalo, US. Christopher Connor has taken up the role of acting VP for enrolment management at the University of Buffalo. Christopher, who has been at the institution 12 years, was previously senior assistant dean for overall enrolment management, and also had the same role for graduate enrolment management services prior to that. He also has a secondary role at the European Association of International Education as a trainer. In his most recent post at Buffalo, he helped to achieve a 74% increase in graduate international student enrolment growth to record high levels 2015-2023 – from 1,460 to 2,542, as well as implemented formal Spring entry terms at Buffalo, which increased new incoming graduate student enrolment 674% 2015-2023 – from 46 to 356. Christopher posted on LinkedIn, saying he was “happy to share” the news with the sector.

Novakid, US. Kate was recently appointed as the director of social media marketing, influencers and PR at Novakid. She has over 10 years’ experience leading global marketing teams in multiple industries, including education. Prior to joining Novakid, Kate worked in lead social media roles at Keenfolks AI Agency, IWG plc, PageGroup as well as writing for several household publications including VICE, ArtNews and Harper’s Bazaar. Bringing people-first leadership to her new role and beyond, Kate also serves as a mentor on GrowthMentor and MentorCruise to empower, clear the path and set a direction to unlock talent potential and drive sustainable results. In her new position at Novakid, her mission is to build a world-class example of customer-centric marketing and positioning Novakid as reference in online ESL education for children. “I feel very fortunate to join the Novakid team at a time where education has become almost inseparable from gamification. At its very best, learning is fun, memorable and filled with surprises – and that’s Novakid from first to last!”

University College Dublin, UAE. Nusrat Bashir has recently been appointed regional director for UCD’s Global Centre in Dubai. Nusrat will drive UCD’s global engagement strategy in a growing number of countries in the Middle East and Africa, strengthening the university’s profile and reputation in the region via growth in student recruitment, establishing and nurturing global relationships and partnerships, and developing student mobility opportunities. With over 20 years of student recruitment experience in international higher education within both the public and private sectors, promoting study abroad in the UK, US, Holland, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, Nusrat is looking forward to focusing now on UCD and Ireland as the number one study destination. “I am incredibly excited to join one of the world’s leading universities and to raise not only the profile of UCD within my region but also to showcase Ireland as the number one study destination for international students,” she said.

Dalhousie University, Canada. James Martin has recently been appointed to the role of manager, recognition of prior learning Dalhousie University. In this role in the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development, James intends to expand prior learning collaborations both locally and internationally. James is a seasoned professional in the realm of International Education with extensive qualifications. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Mary’s University, a certification in School Leadership and Management from Harvard Business School Online, and TESL certification. With extensive expertise in the language, international, K-12, and Higher Education sectors, James has concentrated on school start-ups, curriculum design, academic development, teacher training, and recruitment management. James said: “We are currently experiencing a thrilling era, where people’s intangible yet highly valuable educational experiences are finally being acknowledged globally in sectors that foster relationship-building and long-term opportunities. Their aim to expand outreach to organisations, thereby maximising training and upskilling prospects for individuals, through a collaboration and support with the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

Edvoy, Global. Barnava Sarma was recently promoted to director for Africa, CIS, and South Asia at Edvoy. Barnava is a dynamic leader with more than 12 years of experience in international education and a passion for empowering students and partners to achieve their academic and career goals. With a keen understanding of diverse regional needs, I am also instrumental in fostering partnerships, driving innovation, and connecting agents with top educational institutions for their students. Their strategic vision and commitment to educational excellence have positioned Edvoy as a leading force in facilitating educational journeys for students/partners across Africa, the CIS region, and South Asia.

Enroly, UK. Phoebe O’Donnell embarks on a new and exciting chapter in her career, joining Enroly as its head of services in a significant addition to the company’s fast-growing team. Phoebe joins Enroly following an impressive eight-year tenure at Study Group. Phoebe’s background leading international admissions teams and successful management of transformation projects will undoubtedly play a crucial role in enhancing Enroly as it builds out its services capability. Speaking about her new role and responsibilities, Phoebe said, “I am thrilled to be heading up the Services team at Enroly and to start building on its impressive track-record of delivering first-class outsourced services to Enroly’s university partners on the platform. It’s an opportunity to make a real impact across a fantastic portfolio, from enhancing student visa outcomes to transforming credibility interviews at UK universities. I am passionate about driving process improvements and excited to collaborate with Enroly as we transform CAS, visa and arrival for our university partners.”

London Film School, UK. Chris Auty is to be the new director of the LFS. Chris has been a senior head of department at the National Film and Television School for the past ten years where, apart from his role as head of producing and supervising the development / production of up to 30 short films a year and running the National Film School’s two-year MA producing programme, he has also been responsible for designing, validating and running new MA courses. Prior to his role at NFTS, Chris worked extensively in the film industry. He was founder and CEO of The Works plc, and before that managing director of the recorded picture Company.  Chris commented: “I’m delighted to be taking on the leadership of this renowned film school in the heart of London. It happens to be the place where my own journey into film began – working with LFS alumnus Miguel Pereira on his first feature film. I greatly look forward to working with staff, students, and alumni to build the brightest possible future for this unique, world-class school for independent filmmakers.”

Carfax College, UK. Carfax College has welcomed Iwan Lloyd as its new principal. Iwan is a dedicated and visionary professional whose career in education has spanned diverse settings, both in the United Kingdom and internationally. After achieving qualified teaching status, Iwan worked in the UK and internationally, gaining experience across special education needs, teaching, and learning and education management. Iwan’s journey in education is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.  “We are delighted to welcome Iwan to Carfax College and the Carfax Education company. I am extremely confident that under his leadership, the College is going to continue to develop and grow, ensuring that our pupils are at the centre of all we do. I am really looking forward to seeing the future accomplishments of the College, staff, and students – there will be great things happening.” said Angus Gibson, head of Carfax Tutors.

University of East Anglia, UK. Syed Nooh has taken up the role of head of global insights and market development at the University of East Anglia. With a career spanning an impressive 19 years in international student recruitment, Syed brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. His prior experience encompasses important roles within three prominent UK higher education institutions’ global offices, consultative engagements with Middle Eastern Sponsorship bodies, and tenure with a leading student recruitment agency in the Middle East, where he led rapid growth in operations and student enrolment. In his new role, Syed will lead multiple regional recruitment teams and will serve as a vital bridge between the university’s predominantly offshore international recruitment team and the on-campus operations. Commenting on his new role, Syed said, “I am privileged to be joining UEA, especially as it commemorates its 60th anniversary. UEA is a globally esteemed institution with robust international affiliations, an extensive network of active global partners, and a widespread presence through recruitment offices worldwide. I eagerly anticipate contributing to its ongoing successes by collaborating closely with the exceptional UEA community.”

New Mind Education, US. Hanks Han has been appointed as the executive director, Global Recruitment. With more 15 years of dedication in the international education industry, he possesses in-depth knowledge of international education, demonstrating expertise in the operations and management of international student recruitment. In his previous role, he played a pivotal role in establishing the international business expansion and student recruitment team, excelling in negotiating and maintaining crucial partnerships with partners. His commitment lies in ensuring international students thrive academically, providing them with the best educational opportunities available. In his new role, he aspires to enhance the company’s international student recruitment capabilities, refine the student service system and optimise the curriculum structure to framework to meet the diverse needs of international learners and ensure the successful study abroad experience of every student.

Cognia, Global. With over two decades of educational field experience in Latin America, Andrew Sherman was named Cognia’s VP for Latin America. With a rich background in teaching and leadership in the region, including experience from elementary to university levels, Andrew has made valuable contributions to advancing school improvement and accreditation initiatives across the continent. Andrew’s personal academic journey includes a graduate degree in international education from Harvard University, advanced graduate studies in Latin American history, organisational leadership, and educational administration. Andrew’s leadership in Latin American school communities is noteworthy, having held positions as head of school at Westhill Institute in Mexico City, Colegio Menor San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador, and at the American School of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. “This new role provides an opportunity to enhance school improvement initiatives in the more than 350 schools accredited by Cognia as well as engaging in significant growth of our services by assisting an increasing number of schools in Latin America. I am excited by the prospect of the potential impact this work can have on educational quality throughout the region.”