Upgrading to Fellowship of CMI: Personal perspectives

In my role as Director of Academic Practice, I’ve always believed in the power of continual learning and professional growth. The ever-evolving landscape of higher education demands that we, as leaders, remain adaptable, knowledgeable, and ahead of the curve. In the UK Academic sphere, much focus is placed on Fellowship of Advance HE (at its various levels) as recognition of teaching practice, yet the important skills of leadership both inside and outside formal reporting lines is crucial to success in Higher Education. This is why I’m pleased to have been awarded Fellowship of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), recognising my existing leadership skills and practice.

Leadership experiences

I was fortunate to complete a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership accredited by the CMI whilst a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate with the University of Salford. This programme involved completing a set of coursework demonstrating my management skills alongside employment, including three weeks of in-person sessions run by AEA in Limpley Stoke. Not only did this help me to understand how I could improve my practice, it also facilitated networking opportunities and enabled me to learn from others at the same stage of their career.

Following the KTP, I have held both formal and informal leadership positions at a variety of organisations, including digital agencies, Universities, my current role at CEG Digital, and within Toastmasters International public speaking clubs. My most insightful experiences have not been those in a formal managerial role; rather working with matrix-managed teams or colleagues to effect change without line management capacity. This has required an understanding of how to motivate team members, lead by example, and facilitate best practice.

Chartered Manager

I was first awarded Chartered Manager status in 2022 (admittedly a little later than I was eligible). I was pleased to become a Chartered Manager because it formally recognizes my leadership skills and commitment to professional development. Achieving this status reflects my dedication to continuous improvement and the ability to lead effectively in diverse environments. It also provides a sense of validation for the leadership roles I have undertaken, both formally and informally, across various sectors. Being a Chartered Manager connects me with a network of like-minded professionals, offering valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and growth. This designation not only enhances my career but also equips me to contribute more effectively to the evolving landscape of higher education.

Fellowship of CMI

Being upgraded to a Fellow recognises my continual professional development and the increasingly strategic nature of leadership in my role. As Director of Academic Practice, developing strategic leadership skills is essential to navigating the complex and dynamic landscape of higher education. These skills enable me to anticipate and respond to emerging trends, drive innovation, and make informed decisions that align with institutional goals. Many of the teams I work with are at partners or elsewhere in the organisational structure, requiring a shifting pattern to drive forwards the development of successful online degree programmes.

Strategic leadership also involves fostering collaboration across departments, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, and effectively managing change. I have implemented several such projects, including data management, new systems and processes, and improving student experiences. By developing these skills, I can better support faculty development, enhance teaching and learning practices, and contribute to the institution's overall success. Strong strategic leadership ensures that we remain adaptable, competitive, and prepared for future challenges in academia.

CMI

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) has been incredibly valuable in my journey as a manager. It offers a wealth of resources that have helped me develop my leadership skills and improve my management practices. From the moment I joined, I gained access to a range of tools and qualifications tailored to every stage of my career.  

What I appreciate most about CMI is the opportunity to learn from a community of like-minded professionals. Networking events and webinars have allowed me to connect with others who share the same commitment to excellence in management. Their research and insights keep me informed about the latest trends and best practices in the field.  

Being a member of CMI means being part of an organization that genuinely advocates for high standards in management and leadership, which has not only helped me grow professionally but also significantly impacted my career trajectory.