My job is focused on helping the University to achieve its strategic aims and enabling colleagues to understand how EDI is integral to the institution’s operations. Our vision is to create a positive culture which promotes a sense of inclusion and belonging and to challenge systemic inequities by helping colleagues to consistently adopt an anti-discriminatory approach to work. This is achieved by leading activities that embed EDI into work operations. My role is varied and includes chairing an anti-racist working group; working with schools and professional services to embed EDI into their practice and processes; and delivery of training to colleagues, including senior leadership, on topics such as anti-discriminatory practice, EDI principles, and Equality Impact Assessments.  

My role is very relational, and I truly believe to do this role, you have to enjoy working with others and respect that people are at different starting points in their EDI development. There is huge fulfilment in watching our progress as colleagues and teams that were once working in a way that did not consider EDI, are now adopting and role modelling anti-discriminatory practices. EDI is tough; it requires, resilience, patience, and adaptability, but it is a profession that will provide a home for those who authentically believe in its principles and put themselves out there to achieve individual and systemic change.