Governance
Find out about Kingston University governance, key staff and structure
Find out how the University works
Kingston University is a corporate body created by statute.
The University is committed to maintaining a transparent and effective governance structure.
The Board of Governors and Senior Leadership Team oversee key decisions that ensure the university’s success. This strong governance framework ensures accountability, diversity, and fairness in all operations. The university is driven by a collective commitment to ethical decision-making and upholding high standards in education, research, and community engagement.
Our mission is to promote participation in higher education and the University's Strategic Plan assesses our progress and looks to the future.
Town House Strategy
The future of education
Our world is becoming more interconnected through advances in technology. Society is changing at pace and employers need graduates who bring innovation, enterprise and digital and creative problem-solving skills into the workplace.
Through our Town House Strategy, Kingston University will meet these challenges by delivering a progressive new model of education. We will partner with businesses and other external bodies to support innovation and advance knowledge. Collaboration and innovation will underpin everything we do.
We will enable our students to develop the future skills and personal attributes to thrive in their careers and focus our research, knowledge exchange, and professional practice where it can have impact and drive innovation.
Our vision
Our vision is for Kingston University to be sought after by students and staff as a place to further their ambitions and to have impact on our communities. Our students and staff will be sought after for their skills, knowledge and ability to innovate.
Our mission
Our mission is to enhance students' life chances, support staff ambitions and strengthen Kingston University's impact on industry, policy and the professions to enable a sustainable future socially, economically and environmentally.
Governance overview
The Board of Governors
The Board of Governors is responsible for the strategic direction of the University. It is chaired by Francis Small.
Senior Leadership Team
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steven Spier, is responsible for all aspects of the operation of the University. He is assisted in the discharge of his duties by the Senior Leadership Team, which meets regularly to discuss and advise on key issues.
The Academic Council
The Academic Council is the University's senior consultative committee for all academic matters, and has authority to act via the University's Instrument and Articles of Government. It is responsible for providing assurance to the Board of Governors and for guiding and providing advice to the Vice-Chancellor on academic matters.
Board of Governors
The Board of Governors is responsible for the strategic direction of the University, including:
- determining its educational character and mission
- overseeing its financial viability
- making key policy decisions about the running of the University.
The Vice-Chancellor and his team then implement these decisions.
Board members are expected to act in accordance with an agreed code of conduct which includes abiding by the seven principles of public life as identified in the Government's Nolan Report: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
The Board is supported by the University Secretary, Adrian Parry, and the Corporate Governance and Committees Unit.
- Statement of Primary Responsibilities (PDF) details the Board's work.
- Instrument of Government (PDF) and Articles of Government (PDF) set out the responsibilities of the Board, Vice-Chancellor and Academic Council, as approved by the Board of Governors.
- Scheme of Delegation (PDF) outlines the authority for the University's major organisational responsibilities.
- Code of Conduct (PDF) for members of the Board: Guidance on standards of behaviour, conduct and accountability.
- Standing Orders (PDF) set out the specific procedures and processes to be followed by the Board for the government and conduct of its business.
There are 15 members of the Board of Governors.
- 11 independent members
- One academic staff member
- One professional services staff member
- One student member
- The Vice-Chancellor
Pedro Barra (Academic Staff Member)
Pedro is an Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry at Kingston University. He is a graduate from University of Porto, Portugal, in Human Nutrition and Dietetics and came to the UK in 2000 to complete his MSc and PhD studies.
He joined Kingston University as a Lecturer in Nutrition in 2007. He is a registered nutritionist with the Association for Nutrition – the nutritionists' professional body in the UK and the professional, statutory and regulatory body responsible for the accreditation of Kingston University's two undergraduate nutrition programmes (for which Pedro has been the lead person, managing two successful (re)accreditation events over the last six years).
Pedro is also a graduate of Kingston University, having completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education in 2009. He joined Academic Council (previously Senate) in September 2014, became a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2015), Course Leader for the BSc (Hons) Nutrition (Human Nutrition) (2016) and Faculty Research Ethics Lead (2019). He has a keen interest in learning and teaching, particularly around the use of technology to enhance learning and teaching, having previously held related faculty and university roles (Faculty's Blended Learning Leader (2011–2013) and Acting Associate Head of eLearning for Kingston University (2014)).
At present, Pedro is exploring how best to make use of artificial intelligence, specifically generative AI, to enhance teaching, learning, assessment and research practices in higher education. He has been invited to present across the University around all these themes.
Pedro's higher education experience, over many years and multiple roles, has enabled him to develop a greater understanding of the inner workings of Kingston University. He wishes to contribute further to improve the University's educational mission and its learning environment.
Stephan Burow (Independent Member)
Stephan has an international background, having been born in Germany before finishing schooling in Scotland. He has also spent time in the US and southeast Asia.
Stephan went to Kingston Business school, completing a BA (Hons) in Business Studies before embarking on his professional career and becoming a chartered accountant. He worked for many years in fast moving consumer goods (Unilever, JTI, Tesco/dunnhumby) before getting closer to the world of start-ups and scale-ups. The interest in the latter has taken him to Gousto, where he held a senior leadership role within finance. During his time, the business scaled to become a so-called unicorn (a start-up that successfully scaled to a valuation of >$1bn). He is now CFO of Lintbells, a private-equity backed pet care business.
Stephan is passionate about giving back and extending a helping hand and support to those at the beginning of their career, whether students or early professionals. In addition to his investment in Kingston University, he is supporting Oxford Said Business School as well as CIMA, the chartered accountancy body.
When he finds some 'free' time he loves to go for a swim, a cycle or more generally spend time outdoors.
Katharine Jackson (Independent Member)
Katharine has over 30 years experience in publishing, much of it focused on providing resources for teaching, learning and research in Higher Education. Most recently she was CEO of Proprep, an early stage Edtech, providing online STEM learning which she developed to improve student outcomes in UK higher education. Prior to that, she was CFO/COO of the global academic publisher Sage for 18 years, leading the business through a period of significant growth, digital transformation and international expansion.
She has significant Mergers and Acquisitions experience both on the advisory side from her early career at PWC corporate finance and as a principal having negotiated and integrated multiple acquisitions throughout her career but particularly at Sage where acquisitions were an important engine of business growth. She has also sat on the boards of several start up, hi tech entrepreneurial businesses, advising them to the point of successful sale.
She is currently a trustee and Treasurer of SMA UK, a national medical and disability charity, she is the Vice Chair of Governors of a comprehensive secondary school in Clapham and is an advisor to the Physiological Society, sitting on the publishing committee.
Katharine trained as an accountant with PWC, she has an MBA from Henley Management College and a History degree from Durham University. She is based in Clapham, South West London with her family.
Ian Jennings (Professional Services Staff Governor)
"I was recently elected as the voice for Professional Services staff on the Board of Governors at a time when the sector is facing many challenges, both financially and politically. I am looking forward to working with the Board to identify strategies to positively influence Kingston University.
"My role at Kingston University is the Sports & Active Lifestyles Manager, and I have been in post since 2013. My responsibilities include the Tolworth Court sportsground, the recreational programme and on a Wednesday afternoon, supporting our student teams playing against other Universities.
"Prior to Kingston, I held the position Head of Sport at London Metropolitan University.
"I have a degree in History, a diploma in Management Studies (Leisure) and a masters in Economics.
"Outside of working at Kingston University, I can be found in the evenings either at my local athletics track coaching talented athletes, enjoying a yoga class or wild swimming."
Abdullah Khan (Student Member)
Abdullah is the President of Kingston Students' Union (KSU) for the 2024/25 academic year and actively represents Kingston University students. Abdullah previously served as the Vice President of Education for 2023/24. After a successful year of student representation, he was re-elected as President and aims to enhance the student experience and foster an inclusive environment in his capacity.
As a Trustee on the Board of Kingston Students' Union, Abdullah plays a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of the union. He also chairs the Board of Trustees, ensuring that student voices are central to all decisions. Additionally, Abdullah is an active member of many of the University's key committees, where he provides student insights and addresses the needs and aspirations of the student body.
Abdullah began his MSc in International Business Management at Kingston University London in January 2023 and plans to resume his studies after completing his term as President in 2025/26.
"In my free time, I enjoy hiking, adventure sports, travelling, exploring architecture, and networking with people, reflecting my enthusiasm for exploring new experiences and engaging with diverse individuals."
Roger King (Independent Member)
Professor Roger King was Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lincoln and is a Visiting Professor and Teaching Fellow in the School of Management, University of Bath. He is the Senior Director of Wells Advisory HE Ltd. – a higher education management consultancy company. He has published numerous books and articles on regulation, governance, science policy, and globalisation.
Roger has sat on numerous governance boards in higher education, including recently as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Richmond, the American University in London. He has been a Visiting Professor at a number of Australian universities, including the University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University, and the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Currently he is a research associate at the London School of Economics and Political Science in the Centre for the Analysis of Risk and Regulation, where is also the conveyor of the Higher Education Regulation Network.
John Marsh (Independent Member)
John is a Partner at Ernst & Young LLP (EY) where he leads the Health Consulting Practice and specialises in People Consulting. John has consulted extensively across the public sector for the last 16 years for clients in Health, Central Government and Local Services. John is also a Non-Executive Director at Surrey Heartlands NHS Integrated Care Board and the Chair of Surrey Downs Health and Care Partnership Board.
Before joining EY, John worked in the Civil Service for 22 years in a range of different roles including Group HR Director of the Home Office with a particular interest in workforce transformation, organisational design, culture and talent management. John's Civil Service career included time in the Cabinet Office, HM Treasury and the Prison Service.
John has a BA (Hons) in History from Bristol University and a Masters in Industrial Relations from University of Warwick. John is a Fellow of the Chartered University of Personnel and Development and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Consultants.
John has lived with his family in Surrey for the last 20 years and, in his spare time, enjoys gardening, running and other sports.
Caroline Mawhood (Independent Member)
Caroline was a prominent figure in auditing for more than 12 years as Assistant Auditor General in the National Audit Office and she now has a number of non–executive roles. She is currently a member of the Executive Committee of the Institute for Fiscal Studies and Chair of its Audit Committee and she is a member of the Audit Board of the European Audio Visual Observatory. She is also a trustee of the Wimbledon Guild which is a local charity.
For 8 years, until 2019, Caroline was one of three external members of the Audit Progress Committee of the European Commission. She has also been a member of the Audit Committees of the City of London (until March 2021), the UK Debt Management Office (until June 2019) and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (until 2016) with representation on the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. She has contributed to charity by being the Treasurer and Trustee of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and its successor Breast Cancer Now.
During her executive career in the National Audit Office, and also as President of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, she played a significant role in the development of strong financial management in the public sector. Her experience encompassed auditing major UK government departments and running the corporate services of Audit Office. Caroline is a geography graduate from Bristol University and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy.
Bimal Patel (Independent Member)
Bimal is the Chief Finance Officer at London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust. He has over 20 years of NHS acute provider experience and has held the role of Chief Finance Officer in two NHS organisations. He is a CIMA qualified accountant and has worked at all levels within finance, from a Trainee accountant to Head of Financial Management and then to Head of Financial Control with a variety of experience.
Bimal's ethos for finance is to reduce as much waste as possible to give clinicians more time to deliver excellent patient care (in the NHS) and more resources for students (in academia).
Bimal is a Kingston University graduate who wants to be able to give something back to the university that gave him so much.
Andrew Pearce (Independent Member)
Andrew Pearce is an Independent Non-Executive Director on the CSL (Chaucer Syndicates Ltd) Board. CSL is a global speciality (re) insurance group. He is also a member of the Audit Committee, Risk and Capital Committee and Remuneration and Nominations Committee.
Andrew previously was employed as a Managing Director for Accenture Operations (UK and Ireland). A client account lead and delivery specialist with many years' experience of delivering and leading complex multi-geography IT transformations and outsourcing programs. He has been a delivery centre lead in Mauritius and lived and worked in New York and Brazil. An ex Royal Air Force Squadron Leader, he is an alumnus of Oxford and Imperial College.
Passionate about inclusion and diversity, Andrew was named as one of the Top 50 BAME Execs in the UK, US, and Ireland by the Upstanding List 2016, Empower List 2017 and ranked by the Empower List in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 as being a top minority ethnic leader across the UK, US, Ireland & Canada. Andrew was also recognised on the Green Park list as one of the top 100 BAME leaders in Business 2018 and on the Power in the City list 2018 as one of the top 30 most influential leaders in the UK of African, Caribbean or African American heritage working within legal, financial and professional services.
Andrew lives in Lincolnshire with his wife Sally – a therapist. He has a son who is a Consultant General Surgeon specialising in trauma at the John Radcliffe Oxford and also a Royal Air Force Squadron Leader. He is still rugby-mad but is now more of a spectator. Golf, hiking, skiing, and reading make up his leisure time.
Francis Small (Chair)
Francis Small is Chair of Nexteq PLC, an AIM-listed technology company and a Non-Executive Director of 1Spatial plc, another AIM-listed technology company where he chairs the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee. He was previously Chair of British Business Investments, an investment company with over £3bn committed to finance providers supporting some 40,000 SME businesses across the UK.
Francis had a 36-year international career working for Ernst & Young, a global professional services firm. A chartered accountant by profession, Francis has held board roles at UK, European and Global levels. Career highlights include being Global Head of Corporate Finance and Senior Partner for International Clients. Prior to this Francis was Managing Partner of EY's London Office.
Francis is an MA Law graduate from Cambridge University.
He joined the Board of Governors in 2015 and became Chair in March 2020.
Tom Smyth (Independent Member)
Tom has over 35 years' experience of financial markets, the last 25 years of which were at Rothschild & Co from where he recently retired as Executive Vice Chairman, Financing Advisory.
He founded Rothschild & Co's debt advisory business in the UK which has grown to become the largest independent financing advisory franchise of its type in Europe and beyond. He has advised the boards of the biggest listed and private equity owned companies on a wide range of their funding, risk management and treasury structures and strategies. He has also helped them establish and negotiate their financing arrangements through business cycles.
He is a non–executive director of Clarion Housing Group where he also chairs their Treasury Committee.
He holds a BA (Hons) in Economics from Durham University. He has previously served as a Trustee of Rothschild & Co's UK pension fund.
He is married with two children and has lived in the Kingston area for the past 20 years.
Steven Spier (Ex-officio Member)
A respected expert in architecture, theatre and dance, Professor Spier was appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor in October 2016, before being made Vice-Chancellor in May 2017. He was formerly Dean of the University's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, which rose to prominence as one of the top providers of design education, both in the United Kingdom and around the globe, under his leadership.
Before becoming Vice-Chancellor, he also held the post of Pro Vice-Chancellor for Culture and Civic Engagement – a role in which he was pivotal in strengthening links with the wider community and forging an extensive network of high-profile external partners.
A strong advocate of excellence in teaching, research and enterprise, Professor Spier joined Kingston University in September 2012 after heading the School of Architecture and Design at the University of Ulster. Born in Canada, Professor Spier grew up in the United States. He holds a degree in philosophy from Haverford College, Philadelphia, and completed postgraduate studies at the Southern California Institute of Architecture. His early career saw him based in a number of European cities, including a period teaching at the world-renowned Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zürich. He was later founding principal of the HafenCity University Hamburg in Germany, which specialises in urban planning, architecture and civil engineering.
An acclaimed expert in contemporary Swiss architecture, Professor Spier's many published works include Swiss Made, named one of the books of the year by Architects' Journal in 2003. Also a specialist in choreography as a form of spatial organisation, he edited the first English-language book on renowned choreographer William Forsythe, William Forsythe and the Practice of Choreography. It Starts from Any Point.
Professor Spier has links with a wide range of cultural institutions. He was a founding director of the board of Architecture and Design Scotland, is an honorary fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland and of German body Bund Deutscher Architekten and was a long-serving board member of Scottish Ballet. He is also a board member of the cutting-edge Glasgow-based production house Cryptic – much vaunted for its work fusing music, sonic art, theatre and multimedia.
Katy Taylor (Independent Member)
Katy is Chief Executive at Wightlink, the Isle of Wight ferry. She was previously Chief Customer Officer at Southern Water; prior to that Chief Strategy and Customer Officer at FTSE250 transport group Go-Ahead. She has also held director-level roles at Kroll, VTB Bank and IG Group.
Katy is a Non-Executive Board Director of Anchor care and housing group, an Advisory Board Member of micro-donation charity Pennies.
Katy has as MA in Strategic Marketing from Kingston Business School and CIMA accounting certificate and lives and runs in Kingston.
Richard Thomas (Independent Member)
Richard is a Chartered Accountant with experience in the private and public sectors. Most recently, he was Chief Financial Officer at the British Council which operates in around 100 countries supporting the English language, education and arts to build trust in the UK and help connect UK institutions with partners around the world. Before that he had Finance Director roles at BBC News, BBC World Service Group and in the South West London NHS partnership.
Richard qualified as an accountant with Deloitte Haskins & Sells (now part of PwC) and has a History degree from the University of Manchester. He is a trustee on the board of the Robins Foundation, the Bristol City FC charity, which works to promote education, health and wellbeing in South Bristol. He lives in Wimbledon and has four children and two stepsons.
| Name | Person concerned | Name of organisation involved | Nature of involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr Pedro Barra | Self | London Metropolitan University | External Examiner |
| Self | Robert Gordon University | External Examiner | |
| Self | Association for Nutrition (PSRBs) | Registered Nutritionist | |
| Mr Stephan Burow | Self | Putney Plaza Management Company Limited | Director |
| Self | Astor Close Management Limited | Director | |
| Self | Lintbells Health Limited | Director | |
| Self | Lintbells Limited | Director | |
| Self | Mussel Midco 1 Limited | Director | |
| Self | Mussel Midco 2 Limited | Director | |
| Self | Mussel Topco Limited | Director | |
| Self | Kingston University Services Company Limited | Director | |
| Mr Abdullah Khan | Self | Kingston Students Union | Trustee |
| Professor Roger King | Self | University of Bath | Visiting Professor and Teaching Fellow |
| Self | Global Banking School | Independent Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee | |
| Mrs Katharine Jackson | Self | Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK | Trustee and Treasurer |
| Self | Ark Bolingbroke Academy | Vice Chair of Governors | |
| Self | Physiological Society | Advisor | |
| Self | Kezra Ltd | Sole Shareholder / Sole trade / Self employment | |
| Mr Ian Jennings | Self | Kingston University Unison Branch | Chair |
| Mr John Marsh | Self | Ernst & Young LLP | Employee |
| Self | Surrey Heartlands NHS Integrated Care Board | Non-Executive Director | |
| Self | Surrey Downs Health and Care Partnership Board | Chair | |
Miss Caroline Mawhood
| Self | Institute for Fiscal Studies | Director |
| Self | WG Promotions Limited | Director | |
| Self | Wimbledon Guild of Social Welfare | Director | |
| Self | Wimbledon Guild Charity | Trustee | |
| Self | Roehampton Club Ltd | Director | |
| Self | Roehampton Club Members Ltd | Director | |
| Mr Bimal Patel | Self | London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust | Chief Finance Officer |
| Self | Greenside Court Management Limited | Director | |
| Mr Andrew Pearce | Self | Chaucer Group | Non Executive Director |
| Mr Francis Small | Self | 1 Spatial PLC | Director |
| Self | Glaziers Foundation Limited | Director & Trustee | |
| Self | Nexteq PLC | Chair of Board of Directors | |
| Mr Tom Smyth | Self | Clarion Housing Group | Non-Executive Director and NBSP |
| Professor Steven Spier | Self | University Alliance | Board Member |
| Self | Humanoove | Director | |
| Self | Creative Industries Council | Member | |
| Self | The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland | Honorary Fellow | |
| Self | Bund Deutschen Architekten (BDA) | Honorary Fellow | |
| Self | Royal Society of Arts (RSA) | Fellow | |
| Self | Russell Maliphant Dance Company | Chair | |
| Ms Katy Taylor | Self | Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) | Council Member |
| Self | Wightlink | Chief Executive Officer | |
| Self | Anchor Hanover Group | Non-Executive Board Director | |
| Self | The Pennies Foundation | Advisory Board Member | |
| Mr Richard Thomas | Self | Bristol City Robins Foundation | Trustee |
| Self | Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission | Independent Member of Audit & Risk Committee |
View the Board of Governor's Terms of Reference (PDF)
The Board acts on its own and through its five committees, each of which includes at least three Board members:
2024/25 Board of Governors and Sub-Committee dates
September 2024
- Wednesday 18 September, 9–11am, Nominations and Governance Committee
October 2024
- Wednesday 9 October, 9–11am, Audit & Risk Assurance Committee
- Thursday 17 October, 9–11am, Remuneration Committee
- Wednesday 30 October, 9–11am, Academic Governance Committee
November 2024
- Wednesday 13 November, 9am–12 noon, Audit & Risk Assurance Committee
- Monday 18 November, 9–11am, Finance Committee
- Wednesday 27 November, 9.30am–1.30pm, Board of Governors
February 2025
- Wednesday 26 February, 9–11am, Finance Committee
March 2025
- Wednesday 5 March, 9–11am, Audit & Risk Assurance Committee
- Wednesday 12 March, 9–11am, Academic Governance Committee
- Wednesday 26 March, 9.30am–1.30pm, Board of Governors
April 2025
- Wednesday 30 April, 9–11am, Finance Committee
May 2025
- Wednesday 7 May, 9.30am–1.30pm, Board of Governors
- Wednesday 14 May, 9–11am, Remuneration Committee
- Wednesday 21 May, 9–11am, Nominations & Governance Committee
June 2025
- Wednesday 4 June, 9–11am, Academic Governance Committee
- Wednesday 11 June, 9–11am, Finance Committee
- Monday 18 June, 9–11am, Audit and Risk Assurance Committee
- Wednesday 25 June, 3–6pm, Board of Governors
Academic Council
The Academic Council is responsible for overseeing issues relating to the research, scholarship, teaching and courses at the University, including:
- the criteria for the admission of students
- the appointment and removal of external examiners
- policies and procedures for assessment and examination of the academic performance of students
- the content of the curriculum
- academic standards and the validation and review of courses
- the procedures for the award of qualifications and honorary academic titles and the procedures for the expulsion of students for academic reasons.
The Council is also responsible for considering the development and performance of the academic activities of the University and the resources needed to support them, and for advising the Vice-Chancellor and the Board of Governors therein.
It also has a role to advise on such other academic matters as the Board of Governors or the Vice-Chancellor may refer to it.
The Academic Council is clerked by the Deputy Academic Registrar, Ms Annie Sander, and supported by the Academic Registry.
Who is on the Academic Council?
There are 23 members of the Academic Council.
- Vice-Chancellor (chair) – ex officio
- Provost (deputy chair) – ex officio
- Executive Director of Student Services – ex officio
- Four elected heads of school, heads of department or associate deans (one per faculty)
- 12 elected academic staff (non-head or associate dean) (typically three from each faculty)
- One elected professional or technical member of staff
- Three students nominated by Kingston Students' Union (one undergraduate, one postgraduate taught and one postgraduate research). This may be a current student or a sabbatical officer)
One member of the Academic Council is elected from among the elected academic staff to sit on the Board of Governors.
Academic councillors 2024–25
Four elected heads of school, heads of department or associate deans (one per faculty):
- Rebecca Davies, Head of Department of Foundation, KSA
- Dr Steven Bastow, Associate Dean Learning and Teaching, FBSS
- Professor Reem Kayyali, Head of Department of Pharmacy, HSSCE
- Damian Chapman, Assistant Dean, ECE
12 elected academic staff (non-head or associate dean) (typically three from each faculty):
- Dr Suman Lodh, Associate Professor, FBSS
- Rebecca Burke, Senior Lecturer, FBSS
- Dr Pauline Parker, Director MBA and Executive Education, FBSS
- Dr Nicholas Freestone, Associate Professor, HSSCE
- Mrs Siby Sikhamoni, Senior Lecturer, HSSCE
- Dr Pedro Barra, Associate Professor, HSSCE
- Caroline Alexander, Senior Lecturer, KSA
- Dr Marina Lambrou, Associate Professor, KSA
- Laura Stott, Senior Lecturer, KSA
- Dr Behrouz Zafari, Senior Lecturer, ECE
- Dr Malcolm Claus, Senior Lecturer, ECE
- Dr Nader Saleh-Matter, Senior Lecturer, ECE
The Board of Governors representative from Academic Council:
One elected professional or technical member of staff:
- Amanda Baker, HACKCentre Project Manager
Three students nominated annually by Kingston Students' Union (one undergraduate, one postgraduate taught and one postgraduate research). This may be a current student or a sabbatical officer.
Senior Leadership Team
The Senior Leadership Team meets formally as a body on a regular basis and advises the Vice-Chancellor on the key strategic and operational issues facing the University. This body provides an authorised 'sign-off' point on high-level strategic issues.
Senior leadership terms of reference
View the Senior Leadership Team:
About Steven
Professor Steven Spier is Vice-Chancellor of Kingston University. An accomplished academic and leading advocate of the skills for innovation needed to drive economic growth, he originally joined Kingston University in 2012 as Dean of Kingston School of Art. Through his leadership, he enhanced the School's prominence as one of the top global providers of design and art education.
Steven's academic career has encompassed roles in a number of European cities. These include Zürich – at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zürich – and later in Hamburg as founding Vice-Chancellor of the HafenCity University, an institution of the built environment and metropolitan development. Steven has also served as head of the School of Architecture and Design at the University of Ulster in Belfast and head of the School of Architecture at Strathclyde University in Glasgow.
Acclaimed as an expert in contemporary Swiss architecture, Steven's published works include Swiss Made, named one of the books of the year by the Architects' Journal in 2003. Also a specialist in ballet choreography as a form of spatial organisation, he edited the first English-language book on renowned choreographer William Forsythe, William Forsythe and the Practice of Choreography. It Starts from Any Point.
A driving force in Kingston University's Future Skills campaign, Steven is held in high regard for his ground-breaking work championing the need for government, business and educators to work together to ensure graduates are equipped with the skills for innovation needed to invigorate the national economy.
Steven is currently a member of the Arts and Humanities Research Council and Creative Industries Council. He was a founding director of the board of Architecture and Design Scotland and was named honorary fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland and of German body Bund Deutscher Architekten in recognition of his services to architecture education. He was a long-serving board member of Scottish Ballet and also sat on the board of Glasgow-based production house Cryptic.
Born in Montreal and raised in the United States, Steven holds a degree in philosophy from Haverford College, Philadelphia, and completed postgraduate studies at the Southern California Institute of Architecture.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
Under the Instrument and Articles of Government, Steven is the chief executive of Kingston University, responsible for advising the Board of Governors on the education, character and mission of the University and for the organisation, management and leadership of its staff. He carries out these responsibilities with the advice of colleagues from across the University and, particularly, the Senior Leadership Team.
Education and professional qualifications
- 1989 Master of Architecture, Southern California Institute of Architecture, Los Angeles
- 1981 Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Haverford College, Haverford, Philadelphia
Professional activity
- 2012–present: RIBA and RSUA Design Awards Jury
- 2011–present: The New Metropolis interdisciplinary journal published by HafenCity University, Advisory Board
- 2010–present: Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, Panel of Academic Advisors
- 2009–present: Austrian Science Fund (FWF), Peer Review College, Programme for Arts-based Research (PEEK)
- 2009–11: The University of Brighton, chief external examiner, BA and Master in Architecture
- 2008–present: The Oslo School of Architecture and Design, Quadrennial Evaluation Committee, Institute of Architecture
- 2006–09: The University of Westminster, London, external examiner, Diploma and Master in Architecture
- 2006–11: London Metropolitan University, external examiner, Master of Arts Cities, Design & Regeneration
- 2006: Architektur Olympiade Hamburg, Jury Member (Fachjury)
- 2005: RIBA Design Awards Jury, RIAS Representative
- 2005–present: AHRA (Architectural Humanities Research Association) board member
- 2005–present: Journal for Education in the Built Environment (JEBE), editorial board
- 2003: AHRA (Architectural Humanities Research Association), founder member
- 2002–05: The University of Sheffield, external examiner, BA and Diploma in Architecture
- 2001–04: Kingston University, London, external examiner, MA Art and Space
About Helen
Educated at the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham, where she completed her PhD, Professor Laville returned to Birmingham to begin her academic career as a lecturer in its Department of American and Canadian Studies.
She was promoted to Head of Postgraduate Studies and Head of Department, before taking on the role of Head of the School of English, Drama and American and Canadian Studies in 2013.
Widely published in the field of post-war American history, Professor Laville's research interests span gender, international relations, civil rights and Cold War film.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
The role of Provost is a newly created position that will see Helen provide a single point of leadership for all academic endeavour at the institution.
As Kingston University Provost, Professor Laville will lead a particularly important portfolio encompassing learning and teaching, research and innovation, and business partnership and engagement activities.
External work
Helen also serves on the board of the South Thames College Group and is chair of the trustees of I AM – Celebrating Autism in Greater Manchester.
Major awards and qualifications
- BA Medieval and Modern History (with Honours), First Class, University of Birmingham, June 1992.
- PhD American History ‘A Woman's Place is in the Cold War', University of Nottingham, 1998.
- Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2019).
About Caroline
Caroline Harries joined Kingston University in 2007 and has progressed her career at the University to take up the role of Chief Operating Officer. During her time at Kingston, Caroline has led on securing financial sustainability from her appointment as interim Finance Director in 2018, and delivered on strategic projects including the Residences Project Financing and the Professional and Support Services Redesign (PSSR).
Caroline is the SLT lead for Operational Sustainability and the sponsor for gender. Prior to working in higher education, Caroline was a manager in corporate finance at PKF advising on PFI projects, having previously qualified as a chartered accountant at PricewaterhouseCoopers in London in 2004.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
At Kingston, Caroline's responsibilities include:
- Finance
- Information and Technology Services
- Estates and Sustainability
- Human Resources
She also acts as a member of the University's Senior Leadership Team.
External work
Caroline is also:
- Director of Kingston University Holding Limited
- Director of Kingston University Student Living Limited
Major awards and qualifications
- Member of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)
- Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (CA)
- Undergraduate degree from Warwick University
About Louisa
Louisa joined Kingston University in April 2023, having worked in the university sector for 26 years in six different institutions and with two national agencies. Working mainly for London-based universities until 2016, Louisa took up the role of Academic Registrar at the University of Bedfordshire before returning once again to London in 2019 to become Director of Student Experience at Goldsmiths, University of London.
Louisa has led various strategic change projects, including the co-design and implementation of the PhD Academy whilst at the LSE and more recently a transformation of student-facing services at Goldsmiths. She was a member of several QAA Advisory Groups, developing the UK Quality Code and worked with the QAA for over 10 years including as a QAA Reviewer.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
At Kingston, Louisa's responsibilities include:
- Student recruitment and admissions
- Student Services
- Student Development and Graduate Success
- Development, Alumni Relations & Engagement
She also acts as a member of the University's Senior Leadership Team (SLT), is Chair of the Kingston University Service Company Limited (KUSCO) Board, and acts as the senior liaison contact to Kingston Students' Union.
Major awards and qualifications
- BA English Literature and Language, Oxford University
- MBA Higher Education Management, Institute of Education
About Adrian
Adrian Parry joined Kingston University in September 2023. He was previously Executive Director of Corporate Governance at the University of Portsmouth and, before that, University Secretary at the University of Bedfordshire. Amongst other roles, he also served as the Clerk to the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the Further Education Funding Council.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
At Kingston, Adrian is responsible for managing all matters relating to the Board of Governors and its relationship with the Executive. He also leads the University's Directorate for Corporate Services, comprising the Governance and Compliance; Information Governance; Legal Services; Brand, Communications and Public Affairs; Health, Safety and Security Strategy; Risk, Business Continuity and Insurance; and Executive Support teams.
He is also a member of the University's Senior Leadership Team.
External work
- Trustee and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, University of Portsmouth Academy Trust
- Coopted member of the Audit and Risk Committee, Salterns Academy, Portsmouth
Education and Professional Qualifications
- MEd Education Leadership and Management (Open University)
- MBA (Open University)
- MSc (Econ) Strategic Studies (Aberystwyth University)
- BSc (Econ) International Politics and Strategic Studies (Aberystwyth University)
Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, Strategy
About Kathy
Professor Kathy Curtis was appointed as the Executive Dean and Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education (HSSCE) in February 2024, following a short period as Interim Dean. She joined Kingston University in 2018 as the faculty's Associate Dean External Engagement and Professor of Professional Development, taking faculty responsibility for partnership working with organisations such as the NHS that provide integrated placements to students and commission workforce development courses.
Prior to this role, Kathy held senior academic, leadership and faculty executive positions in two other universities, including leadership of a large School of Nursing and Health Sciences providing a diverse range of programmes including post-graduate medical education. Before her academic career, Kathy worked in senior clinical roles within critical and intensive care services in NHS and independent sector services.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
Kathy is responsible for the leadership and management of the faculty in line with University's Town House Strategy priorities. Kathy has an extensive portfolio of pedagogic and clinical research activity with many peer-reviewed publications in the fields of professional development, co-design for leadership of ethical and compassionate practice, digital innovations within care settings, and professional socialisation. Kathy supervises doctoral students and provides Chair and External Examiner activity for PhD Viva Voce Examination.
External work
Kathy holds several external roles as Chair, Board member, Governor and Non-Executive Director in areas of healthcare and higher education. She represents Kingston University at National groups, such as University Alliance Deans of Health and the Council of Deans of Health.
Major awards and qualifications
- PhD (University of Surrey)
- MSc in Healthcare
- PG Dip in Health Professional Education
- Senior Fellow, Higher Education Academy
- BSc(Hons) Psychology and Social Biology
- Registered General Nurse and NMC Registered Educator
Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment / Pro Vice-Chancellor
(Interim support) Shannah Adams, PA to the Dean
About Mandy
Mandy Ure joined Kingston School of Art in November 2015 as Head of Department for Fine Art. Between January and June 2019 she was also Acting Head of School of Art and Architecture. Her previous substantive role was Head of the School of Art and Design at University of the West of England, Bristol. In this role she led a large portfolio of courses across Art and Design disciplines and oversaw the redevelopment of city campus sites.
Mandy studied at Goldsmiths College, University of London and Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee. She is an artist and has exhibited nationally and internationally. She is part of the We Are Publication (WAP) group at KSA and in the last three years has fostered international postgraduate research links for students and staff.
Responsibilities and portfolio areas
Mandy is a member of the Senior Leadership Team and has responsibility for the strategic leadership and management of Kingston School of Art. She is responsible for the strategic, financial and operational oversight of the Faculty in line with University strategic priorities. Academic provision in the Faculty includes Art, Design, Creative Industries, Performing Arts and Humanities subject areas. She works closely with the Associate Deans of Learning and Teaching and of Research and with academic and technical staff Heads.
External work
- External validation panels – Arts University Bournemouth; Oxford Brookes University
- External Examining – Lancaster University; Chelsea College of Art and Design (UAL); University of Derby; Goldsmiths College, University of London; Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, University of Dundee
- Advisory Boards and Steering Groups - Stanley Picker Gallery and Dorich House Museum Advisory Group, Kingston upon Thames; Spike Island Associates Scheme, Bristol; ‘Situations' New Writing bursaries; Imprint (zine), Bristol
- Mentor and advisory roles – Spike Island Artspace; BV studios; Motorcycle Showroom; Bristol Diving School
Major awards and qualifications
- SFHEA
- MA Fine Art (Goldsmiths College, University of London)
- BA (Hons) Fine Art (DJCA, University of Dundee)
- AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Award
- British Council Award (Venice Biennale)
Interim Dean of the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences
Penny White, PA to the Dean
Senior Leadership Team Register of Interests 2024/25
| Name | Person concerned | Name of organisation involved | Nature of involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr Adrian Parry | |||
| Professor Morteza (Amir) Alani | Self | Nil return | |
| Dr David Ashton | Self | JISC | Trustee |
| Self | HESA | Trustee | |
| Self | HEDD | Trustee | |
| Self | Prospects | Trustee | |
| Self | Open Athens | Trustee | |
| Self | Chase | Trustee | |
| Self | Advance HE | Associate Consultant | |
| Self | Royal Society for the Arts | Fellow | |
| Self | Royal Historical Society | Associate Fellow | |
| Professor Kathy Curtis | Self | Bridges Self-Management Ltd | Non-Executive Director |
| Self | St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust | Colleague (non-SLT member) | |
| Mrs Louisa Green | Self | Kingston University Services Company Ltd | Director |
| Self | Rose Theatre Trustee Board | Trustee | |
| Mrs Caroline Harries | Self | KU Student Living Limited | Director (non-shareholder) |
| Self | KU Holding Limited | Director (non-shareholder) | |
| Self | Portsmouth Grammar School | Governor | |
| Professor Helen Laville | Self | South Thames College Group | Governor |
| Other | McLaren | Employee | |
| Dr Jane Tapsell | Self | Nil Return | Nil Return |
| Ms Mandy Ure | Self | Kingston Theatre Trust | Trustee |
Policies and Regulations
Find out more about Kingston University's policies and regulations.
Legal Framework
Find out about Kingston University's legal framework.
Contact us
Need more information?
Contact us to find the right person to reach out to, or call our switchboard on +44 (0)20 8417 9000.
