UA92 appoints Chief Academic Officer

UA92, the groundbreaking higher education institution co-founded by the Class of ‘92 and Lancaster University, has appointed Professor Gary Pritchard as Chief Academic Officer.

Professor Pritchard joins UA92 following an extensive career in higher education, most recently in his role as Academic Pro Vice Chancellor at Ravensbourne University London. Previously, he held positions as Dean at the University of Wales, Founding Dean of Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design and Associate Dean at Newport School of Art, Media & Design. In addition, Professor Pritchard undertook a one year industry sabbatical as Director of Talent at digital advertising agency, ForwardPMX; where he led on developing leadership and succession planning.

Professor Pritchard said: “I’m so pleased to be joining UA92 in its ambition to reach students of all backgrounds and build upon the fantastic work already undertaken to deliver high quality education which is underpinned by strong links to industry. I’m very much looking forward to working with the team to build upon UA92’s reputation to offer world-class experiences which prepare and equip students for the world of work in every way possible.”

His extensive career experience includes overseeing the health and quality assurance of 20 international institutions affiliated to the University of Wales. At Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design, a Vogue branded private institution, he led the team from inception to launch, including setting the academic vision, curriculum writing, recruiting faculty members, liaising with industry and colleagues at Vogue Magazine and registering with the Office for Students.

Professor Pritchard is extremely passionate about developing talent, and his PhD focussed on ‘Talent identification and Development in Students’. In recognition of his sustained record of effective strategic leadership in academic practice, he was awarded Principal Fellow of the HEA, and he holds a professorial title in Transformational Education.

Professor Pritchard succeeds Dr Robert Lauder at UA92, who has held the role of Interim Academic Officer alongside his duties at Lancaster University. 

Sara Prowse, CEO of UA92, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Professor Pritchard to UA92. He adds a wealth of significant knowledge and experience to our senior academic team, who together are instrumental in shaping the way forward for our students to have the best future prospects possible. I know Professor Pritchard shares our determination to deliver an exceptional student experience and meaningful, career building education for all young people.

“I’d also like to thank Dr Lauder for his massive contribution, commitment, passion and hard work to build the academic function and steer the leadership of UA92. We will continue to work together regularly as he returns to his role at Lancaster University, which accredits our degrees.”

Based in Old Trafford, Manchester, UA92 is committed to making higher education accessible to all no matter the background, through its founding principles of accessibility, social mobility and inclusivity. UA92 offers a portfolio of degree and higher education courses across business, sport, media and digital disciplines, preparing students for the world of work by offering industry-led courses.