Allan Jones joined the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing in 2008 and since then has gone on to become the School strategic lead for UK and international collaborative provision. Here, he talks about the importance of his role.

Tell us about your background and how you came to work within the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing?

Before joining the University, I had a very successful career in digital and IT programme and project management. I originally came to the university to study part time for an MSc in project management, and then joined the project management teaching team. Working at Leeds Beckett has enabled to me give something back to students to help them progress their careers.

Since joining Leeds Beckett, I have been fortunate to have been promoted to manage and develop the portfolio of strategic partnerships and enhance the existing School partnership portfolio.

What does your job involve day to day?

On a daily basis, I could be talking with colleagues about an exciting new venture or a new progression agreement to Leeds Beckett. I could also be responding to queries or questions from one of the international regulators about the performance of a specific course which is delivered by a UK or international franchise partner.

More recently, I have been involved with some interesting discussions with two colleges in the UK, to increase the course portfolio. Hopefully, these discussions will be concluded for the new academic year.

What do you love about your job?

I love the spontaneity in the job role, in that each day brings something different. I like to think that my involvement with international partners may give the opportunity for students to either learn in their home country or join courses here in Leeds to enjoy the full Leeds Beckett experience.

My job has involved working with people from across the UK and from several different countries including USA, Hong Kong, Nepal, India, Mauritius, Botswana, Oman, Bahrain, Singapore, South Africa and Malaysia.

How is collaboration integral to your work, and what are one or two collaborations that have been most meaningful to you?

I foster collaborations and partnerships with both UK and international universities, colleges, institutions, and organisations worldwide. This can include student exchange programs, school collaborations and joint research projects, helping to enhance the global reach of the university.

This strategic approach was highlighted during my business development trip to India in March this year, where I met with a number of leading universities. Some of these included Symbiosis International (Deemed University) in Pune, PSG – the Institute of Advanced studies where I attended as Chief Guest, and Karunya University, both of which are located in Coimbatore. This was to develop progression agreements to bring Indian undergraduate students onto Leeds Campus.

Why is it so important to develop positive international partnerships?

Developing international partnerships is important to the School and university, as this initiative helps to provide inclusivity for more students. It gives a more stable progression route for those students that can progress to Leeds Beckett, to complete a top-up degree or undertake postgraduate studies.

For those that cannot make the journey to Leeds, a partnership development route offers students the opportunity to join a Leeds Beckett course and gain a Leeds Beckett degree in their home country.