#LeadingWithPurpose Spotlight: Prof Phil Vickerman, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Students Experience at Liverpool John Moores University
Our #LeadingWithPurpose Spotlight interview series sees organisational leaders explain what leading with purpose means to them and how they strive to make their organisation a force for good in society.
In this episode, read how Prof Phil Vickerman, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Student Experience at Liverpool John Moores University, does so.
Phil, What inspires you personally to lead with purpose?
I have a deep commitment to the success of all our students and this drives me with real purpose in helping students navigate their educational journey. I am inspired by the positive impact higher education makes to the life experiences and choices students make.
I am personally driven by co-creation of high-quality experiences where all students feel valued and supported. After struggling myself in school, it was only through great teaching and supportive advice and guidance at college and university my passion for learning was fired, and I want to see such opportunities be available to everyone.
Can you share a story or moment that shaped your own leadership?
I have had many opportunities to develop my leadership skills in higher education, and still to this day remember colleagues who helped shape my approach.
I remember one manager who told me when I had been appointed into a leadership position I would “have to toughen up and not be as accommodating.” Speaking to my mentor about this conversation they gave me three great pieces of advice I live by to this day:
Do not change who you are, because you have got where you are by being your authentic self.
It is ok to say when you have got things wrong or need to take a different approach.
Remain empathetic, self-aware, and goal oriented and this will serve you well with the people you lead.
Why is your organisation committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity?
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is deeply committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of our mission to promote equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
The University have a long history of facilitating access to transformational education for students from underrepresented or disadvantaged communities. We value the richness diverse student communities bring and work hard to remove the structural and systemic barriers limiting student success.
LJMU embed inclusivity in its vision, values, and leadership to break the cycles of disadvantage. In recognising the barriers and challenges we are halfway there to addressing the limiting factors to engagement and success. We see the transformational impact education brings to everyone as a force for good and it is through this focus we commit to further break down barriers.
