I am Professor of Digital Arts and Creative Industries, Principal Fellow of Advance HE and Head of the School of Digital Arts, SODA, at Manchester Metropolitan University - home to around 2,000 students exploring the forefront of art and creative technologies, preparing them for dynamic careers in the creative industries.
With nearly three decades of experience I’ve become a recognised leader in innovative and forward-thinking creative higher education. My work at policy level contributes to shaping the future of the sector, while my leadership style fosters high-performing, collaborative and inclusive environments for both staff and students. I actively cultivate partnerships to address talent gaps, improve graduate outcomes and expand access to higher education. I have guided SODA from its inception as a strategic initiative to its successful launch in 2021. Earlier in my career, I spent a decade immersed in research and industry, contributing to national and international projects as Research Fellow and later as Research & Project Manager at MDR Partners.
My teaching and learning philosophies are shaped by my interdisciplinary background, blending User-Centred Design, Agile Philosophy, and Design Thinking within a Constructivist framework. This allows me to design innovative curricula that connect theory with hands-on practical, enriching student experiences and aligning academic learning with professional relevance. I also lead Manchester Met’s involvement in the UNESCO City of Lifelong Learning initiative in collaboration with Manchester City Council, linking us to the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, and championing lifelong learning across communities.
I have been a champion of degree apprenticeship programmes since their launch in 2015 snd continue to advocate for new approaches to higher education that open up opportunities to those who might not otherwise study for a degree or consider an arts education or career.
I’m a dedicated educator, seasoned supervisor and examiner, and a widely published scholar. My work has been featured at international conferences, events, and workshops, where I’ve been invited to share insights and expertise.