Karen Heaton to retire

09 Mar 2021

A message from Patrick Hackett, Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer

Dear colleagues

I’m writing to let you know that our Director of Human Resources, Karen Heaton, will be retiring from the University in November 2021. 

Karen joined us as Director in 2006 and during her time with us has led a number of significant initiatives, not least guiding our University through a range of transformational change projects. 

She has also led on a complex review of pay and grading; brought about a number of HR policy improvements; introduced a more strategically aligned approach to organisation development and a greater focus and investment in health and wellbeing support for colleagues.  

Karen has been a valuable member of our University’s Senior Leadership Team as well as providing leadership to the Directorate of Human Resources.  On a personal level, I have greatly valued Karen’s advice, expertise and support, especially over the past 12 months which have presented colleagues with many new challenges, as well as some exciting future opportunities.

I’m sure you will join me in wishing Karen all the best for a long and relaxing retirement and thank her for her significant contribution to our University over the past 15 years.

We will now begin the search for Karen’s successor who will continue to bring our commitment to Our People, Our Values to life and I will keep you informed of our progress. 

Best wishes

Patrick Hackett, Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer