Edge Hill University appoint deputy vice-chancellor

Edge Hill University has appointed Professor Kurt Allman to the new role of deputy vice-chancellor for business development and external engagement.

The strategic appointment reflects the university’s commitment to driving sustainable growth and enhancing its global reputation.

Prof Allman brings a wealth of experience in leadership, student experience and educational innovation, with a proven track record of aligning institutional goals with the evolving landscape of higher education.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Edge Hill’s unique community and very much looking forward to contributing to the next chapter of the University’s journey, one that is increasingly global while remaining firmly rooted in local relevance and impact.”

This appointment to the university executive will play a pivotal role in shaping the university’s external strategy, integrating academic leadership with commercial insight to drive sustainable growth, develop new income streams and enhance Edge Hill’s national and global reputation.

A Professor of Enterprise, Kurt has more than 25 years of experience in higher education.

Throughout his career, he has successfully secured £25m in external funding, investment which significantly boosted institutional capacity for regional development, entrepreneurship and economic growth.

He joins Edge Hill from University of Chester, where he served as pro vice-chancellor for enterprise and dean of the faculty of science, business and enterprise.

Under his leadership, Chester Business School was named Times Higher Education Business School of the Year and Educate North Business School of the Year in 2024, accolades that recognise excellence in business engagement and international growth.

Prior to his time at Chester, he was director of Keele Business School, where he advanced the responsible leadership agenda and drove regional economic growth.

His extensive knowledge of the North West economy is further bolstered by previous senior roles at the University of Salford, the University of Manchester and University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology.