Edge Hill University Strengthens Leadership with Strategic Appointment
Edge Hill University has announced a significant strategic appointment that signals its commitment to sustainable growth and enhanced global engagement. The institution has named Professor Kurt Allman as its new Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Business Development and External Engagement.
Bringing Extensive Experience to a Key Role
Professor Allman brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education to this pivotal position within the University Executive. His appointment is designed to shape Edge Hill's external strategy by integrating academic leadership with commercial insight. This approach aims to drive sustainable growth, develop new income streams, and enhance the university's reputation both nationally and internationally.
Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Allman has demonstrated exceptional capability in securing substantial external funding, having successfully obtained £25 million in investment that significantly boosted institutional capacity for regional development, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
A Track Record of Excellence and Innovation
Professor Allman joins Edge Hill University from the University of Chester, where he served as Pro Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise and Dean of the Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise. Under his leadership, Chester Business School achieved remarkable recognition, being named both Times Higher Education Business School of the Year and Educate North Business School of the Year in 2024.
These prestigious accolades specifically recognise excellence in business engagement and international growth, highlighting Professor Allman's proven ability to align institutional goals with the evolving landscape of higher education.
Deep Regional Knowledge and Academic Leadership
Prior to his tenure at Chester, Professor Allman served as Director of Keele Business School, where he advanced the responsible leadership agenda and drove regional economic growth. His extensive knowledge of the North West economy is further strengthened by previous senior roles at several prominent institutions, including the University of Salford, the University of Manchester, and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology.
As a Professor of Enterprise, Allman has developed particular expertise in leadership, student experience, and educational innovation throughout his career.
Looking Toward a Global Future with Local Roots
In response to his appointment, Professor Allman expressed enthusiasm about joining Edge Hill University's unique community. "I'm thrilled to be joining Edge Hill's unique community and very much looking forward to contributing to the next chapter of the University's journey," he stated. "This is a journey that is increasingly global while remaining firmly rooted in local relevance and impact."
This strategic move represents Edge Hill University's commitment to strengthening its leadership team with professionals who can navigate the complex intersection of academic excellence and commercial opportunity in today's competitive higher education landscape.
