#LeadingWithPurpose Spotlight: Prof Eunice Simmons, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chester

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 Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chester, does so.

Eunice, how did you find purpose in your work?

I have been fortunate to work with enthusiasts for learning who helped me forge my skills as a school teacher, lecturer and academic manager.

It's a privilege to be in such roles as you see very quickly whether your session preparation or course design creates a genuine educational experience. Students' feedback, progress and outcomes are all motivating factors which support a sense of purpose over this educational journey.

In moving on to academic leadership I have been determined to retain this connection with students and our core educational purpose despite the distractions of a general management role. Resources are scarce but I see daily examples of the individual and collective benefits of a great educational experience - so I never lose my sense of purpose!

Can you share a specific example of an initiative or project that made a significant impact?

I established and chaired a Race Equality Challenge Group in which staff and student members focused on practical improvements to our systems and processes, looking through a race lens.

Through this we developed the idea of Race Advocates - paid roles for students to work on specific challenges and issues in the organisation; everything from recruitment to graduation. This has been hugely successful, leading to real improvements to our systems and creating a more positive, inclusive culture.

And why is your organisation committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity?

The University of Chester is proud of its appeal to students from a diverse range of backgrounds.

We believe that succeeding in higher education is as much a mindset as a skillset - and so our courses create opportunities for curiosity, growth and fulfilment. We help students scope their futures far beyond their initial thinking - and give them the tools to succeed as the world changes around them.