28 April 2026 - UCISA26 Ellen Carter Reflections
Reflections on UCISA26: Shared Purpose, Collective Leadership and the Power of People
I was fortunate enough to attend and speak at the UCISA 26 Leadership Conference, held at the ACC in Liverpool last month. In the run‑up to the event, I felt a degree of apprehension as this was both my first UCISA leadership conference and my first time attending as a speaker. However, it didn’t take long for those nerves to settle.The conference was exceptionally well organised, with genuine credit due to the UCISA team for creating such an inclusive and welcoming environment. Supported by a few sunny days, Liverpool proved to be the perfect backdrop for three days of learning, discussion and reflection. With such a rich programme of presentations, panel discussions and exhibitors, it has taken some time to fully absorb everything I learned and gained from the experience.
One of my strongest takeaways was the power of a shared purpose. Across the conference, from keynote sessions to exhibitor conversations and informal networking there was a clear determination to work openly and transparently to create meaningful, positive impact for students, staff, researchers and wider communities. Having previously worked in the private sector, where competition often shapes behaviours and priorities, it was inspiring to be part of a community so firmly focused on collaboration and collective benefit.
Another recurring theme was people, people, people. Despite the backdrop of rapid technological change, shifting demands, geopolitical pressures and system transformation, one message rang particularly clear: sustainable progress depends on keeping people at the centre of everything we do. One quote shared during the conference captured this sentiment perfectly:
“Diversity is being invited to the party, inclusivity is being asked to dance, belonging is feeling comfortable to dance like no‑one is watching.”
This resonated strongly, reinforcing the importance of not only representation, but genuine inclusion and belonging across our organisations and the sector more broadly.
The conference also reinforced the idea that leadership is a journey rather than a destination. Effective leadership was consistently framed as requiring openness, curiosity and a learning mindset. Whether responding to policy changes, technological developments, cultural shifts or resource pressures, the most effective leaders are those who embrace continuous improvement and adaptability, rather than seeking certainty or quick fixes.
Finally, UCISA26 highlighted that we are stronger together. Many of the challenges facing higher education are shared, and the most impactful solutions emerge through collective effort. Panel discussions demonstrated how collaboration can reduce duplication, ease pressure and create more seamless experiences — reminding us that while two heads may be better than one, many heads working together are better still.
Attending UCISA26 through the PlusOne bursary scheme has been a genuinely valuable experience. I have already begun sharing insights with colleagues within my institution and look forward to continuing to disseminate the learning gained, ensuring it translates into meaningful impact beyond the conference itself.
