Coventry University appoints UK government higher education specialist to lead its international work
Coventry University has appointed the UK Department for International Trade (DIT)’s higher education specialist, Aisling Conboy, to the role of Pro-Vice-Chancellor, International.
Aisling’s current work at the DIT focuses on transnational education, teacher training and chartered professional bodies. She has led the department’s work in developing commercial partnership opportunities for UK higher education providers and chartered professional bodies, supporting UK education exports and the development and implementation of the UK Government’s International Education Strategy.
In her new role as Pro-Vice-Chancellor, International, Aisling’s work will include the development and operation of key international activities in support of Coventry University’s 2030 Strategy. These include the continued development of our overseas hubs, the academic partnerships unit and a range of other high level international engagements.
Coventry University has four overseas hubs in Singapore, Belgium, Dubai and Rwanda and has a global network that has 50,000 learners studying Coventry University degrees in more than 40 different countries and partnerships or collaborations with 150 higher education providers worldwide.
Aisling Conboy, incoming Pro-Vice-Chancellor, International, Coventry University, said: “I am looking forward to leading the development and delivery of the international strategy at Coventry University, and to be joining such a fast-paced, enterprising and globally engaged university. Given the huge changes we’ve seen in how education is delivered since the pandemic, and the changes to the labour market globally, innovation and agility are more important than ever. I am eager to join the team at Coventry University Group, and excited to represent a very ambitious university group on the international stage.”
Professor John Latham CBE, Vice-Chancellor, Coventry University, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aisling to Coventry University. She brings with her a wealth of leadership experience and strategic relationships, which will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our robust global outlook and develop our international strategy.”
Aisling, who will commence her new job in January 2022, brings a host of experience to the role, having previously worked as the University of Greenwich’s International Partnerships Director, with oversight for transnational education and global mobility. She has worked for more than 15 years leading international partnerships including roles at the US-UK Fulbright Commission, Strathclyde Business School and the John Smith Trust.
She has studied at both UK and US universities and is passionate about study abroad and providing access to opportunities for young people irrespective of their background. She has travelled to, and worked with partners in, more than 40 countries.
Aisling is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Professional Advisory Board of the University of the West of Scotland’s London Campus, and a founding member of the Business Women in Education Group established by Education Investor.
