Delivering Tangible Solutions For Real-World Issues

HEPN North 2024

HEPN is a unique, two-day learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers in the Higher Education sector to share cutting-edge insight, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.

HEPN North 2024

27th - 28th February, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

Day 1
Day 2

27 February 2024

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration
8:45 am - 8:50 am

Main Room

Chair's Opening Remarks

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Welcome to the Higher Education Partnership Network (HEPN), where I’ll be your host. Networking events such as HEPN provide an opportunity for universities to come together to address national and global challenges and to share best...

Welcome to the Higher Education Partnership Network (HEPN), where I’ll be your host. Networking events such as HEPN provide an opportunity for universities to come together to address national and global challenges and to share best practice.
8:50 am - 9:30 am

Main Room

Panel Discussion: How can we provide and demonstrate value for money?

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Nicole Louis

Chief Operating Officer
London South Bank University

Prof. Shirley Congdon

Vice Chancellor
University of Bradford

The opening panel discussion will showcase examples of how universities can demonstrate value for money across 3 key areas

1. Civic, community, society – skills development, commercial value
2. Students – what is the add...

The opening panel discussion will showcase examples of how universities can demonstrate value for money across 3 key areas

1. Civic, community, society – skills development, commercial value
2. Students – what is the added value beyond getting a degree?
3. Business and enterprise, research and knowledge exchange
9:35 am - 9:55 am

Main Room

Headline Presentation - Google: Fireside chat: In conversation with Adam Stewart
9:55 am - 10:25 am

Main Room

Dragon's Den Speed Presentations

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a short 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoing chall...

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a short 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoing challenges.
10:30 am - 11:45 am

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
11:50 am - 12:10 pm

Main Room

Platinum Sponsor Presentation
12:10 pm - 12:30 pm

Main Room

Delivering on digital ambition and green computing goals

Prof. Mohammad Patwary

Director of Digital Innovation and Solution Centre
University of Wolverhampton

In this presentation, we will explore the intersection of digital ambition and green computing objectives within universities.

Our primary focus will be on striking a delicate balance between aspirations and resource constraints.<...

In this presentation, we will explore the intersection of digital ambition and green computing objectives within universities.

Our primary focus will be on striking a delicate balance between aspirations and resource constraints.

We’ll delve into strategies for assessing and adapting the institution’s capabilities and capacities to align with ambitious digital goals, while also considering the principles of green computing for a sustainable approach.
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Breaking down silos

Mohammed Aufogul

Head of Technical Design and Delivery
University College London

Estates and IT have traditionally worked independently of each other, coming together at the end of a project to delivering the outcome.

However, with advances in technology, Building Management Systems (BMS) and the move towards...

Estates and IT have traditionally worked independently of each other, coming together at the end of a project to delivering the outcome.

However, with advances in technology, Building Management Systems (BMS) and the move towards Smart Building, the need for both organisations to collaborate has become more prevalent.

See how UCL has gone on the journey of collaboration between IT, estates, and beyond with partners. This journey is illustrated with real life examples and showcases the amazing outcomes that can be achieved when collaboration takes place.
12:55 pm - 1:15 pm

Main Room

Gold Sponsor Presentations
1:15 pm - 2:00 pm

Main Room

Networking Lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.
2:05 pm - 2:35 pm

Main Room

Group discussion on AI

Nisreen Ameen

Co-Director of Digital Organisation and Society Research Centre
Royal Holloway University, London

Prof. Margherita Pagani

Director
SKEMA Center for AI – SKEMA Business School

Dr Eleonora Pantano

Associate Professor in Retail and Marketing Technology
University of Bristol Business School

Join us for a stimulating group discussion on the burgeoning role of AI in higher education. We’ll delve into the diverse applications of artificial intelligence, its impact on teaching, research, and administrative processes.
...

Join us for a stimulating group discussion on the burgeoning role of AI in higher education. We’ll delve into the diverse applications of artificial intelligence, its impact on teaching, research, and administrative processes.

Our expert hosts will explore AI’s potential benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations in the university setting.

Engage in a thought-provoking conversation and gain insights into how AI is reshaping the future of academia!
2:40 pm - 3:25 pm

Main Room

Gold Sponsor Presentations
3:30 pm - 4:45 pm

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
4:50 pm - 5:30 pm

Main Room

Panel Discussion: How can universities scale their distance learning provisions?

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Dr Margaret Korosec

Dean of Online and Digital Education
University of Leeds

Dr Suzanne Smit

Programme Leader for Distance Learning MBA
University of Bradford

Nicki Twin

Head of Distance Learning, Learning Development Services
Anglia Ruskin University

Delve into the future of higher education with our expert panel as they discuss the strategies for universities to expand their distance learning programs while maintaining educational excellence.

Explore the innovative methods fo...

Delve into the future of higher education with our expert panel as they discuss the strategies for universities to expand their distance learning programs while maintaining educational excellence.

Explore the innovative methods for attracting a diverse, global student base without compromising on quality and outcomes.

Discover the transformative potential of technology in making education accessible worldwide.
5:35 pm - 6:00 pm

Main Room

Closing Keynote: What is the future of technology in Higher Education?

Oliver Davy

Chief Digital Officer
University of Derby

John Hill

Head of Digital Learning
University of Derby

What is digital transformation? Is the term digital as useful as it once was?

Everyone in every department is on a transformation journey. The use of digital is just a slight change in language, but we’re all saying the same thi...

What is digital transformation? Is the term digital as useful as it once was?

Everyone in every department is on a transformation journey. The use of digital is just a slight change in language, but we’re all saying the same thing.

Whether it’s about workforce, curriculum, outcomes – this is just transformation!

Find out how technology can be your ally in this session.
6:00 pm - 6:05 pm

Main Room

Chair's Closing Remarks
6:05 pm - 7:30 pm

Main Room

Hotel Check-in/Free Time

Overlooking the Manchester metropolis, the 23-story Hilton Deansgate hotel is in the heart of the city center. Manchester Arena and Piccadilly Station are a mile away and we are surrounded by museums, shops and restaurants. Wake up to fl...

Overlooking the Manchester metropolis, the 23-story Hilton Deansgate hotel is in the heart of the city center. Manchester Arena and Piccadilly Station are a mile away and we are surrounded by museums, shops and restaurants. Wake up to floor-to-ceiling views and spend the evening sipping cocktails at Cloud 23- the highest bar in the city. Our health club features a fitness center, indoor pool, sauna and steam room
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Main Room

Drinks Reception & Networking Dinner

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served i...

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served in formal-style seating to a set menu. Our delegate team will speak to you to ensure we cater for any specific dietary requirements.

28 February 2024

9:00 am - 9:05 am

Main Room

Chair's Opening Remarks

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford
9:05 am - 9:25 am

Main Room

Digital skills vs mindset

Jason Oliver

Chief Digital and Technology Officer
University of Sussex

In this thought-provoking opening keynote presentation, Jason will address the pivotal shift from digital skills to transforming mindsets in education.

As we navigate a digital-centric world, there’s an escalating demand for...

In this thought-provoking opening keynote presentation, Jason will address the pivotal shift from digital skills to transforming mindsets in education.

As we navigate a digital-centric world, there’s an escalating demand for a digitally immersive student experience. To meet this challenge, it’s imperative to foster a digitally literate staff-base and elevate competencies across the educational spectrum.

Join us to explore the critical journey of aligning skills and mindsets for a future ready educational landscape.
9:25 am - 9:45 am

Main Room

Platinum Sponsor Presentation
9:45 am - 10:05 am

Main Room

Developing our digital futures strategy

Adrian Ellison

Chief Information Officer and Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor
University of West London

This presentation will describe the University of West London’s (UWL) 5-year Digital Futures strategy.

This comprehensive plan seamlessly integrates AI, AR, VR, and cutting-edge learning technologies. UWL proudly introduces its ...

This presentation will describe the University of West London’s (UWL) 5-year Digital Futures strategy.

This comprehensive plan seamlessly integrates AI, AR, VR, and cutting-edge learning technologies. UWL proudly introduces its Digital Futures Lab, a trailblazing centre for innovation.

Explore how this strategy benefits both faculty and students. Adrian Ellison will unveil the strategies to make this vision a reality.
10:05 am - 10:25 am

Main Room

Gold Sponsor Presentations
10:30 am - 11:30 am

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
11:35 am - 12:15 pm

Main Room

Panel Discussion: Bridging the gap between technology and the world of academia

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Anthony Stephens

Associate Director of Digital Strategy
University of Salford

Dr Janet Lord

Director of Education
Manchester Metropolitan University

Pia Carnegie

Former Director of Education, Senior Lecturer and Partnership Tutor
Buckinghamshire New University

Dr Alex Moseley

Head of Anglia Teaching and Learning
Anglia Ruskin University

Discover the dynamic intersection of technology and academia in this enlightening panel discussion.

How can we uncover the opportunities and challenges in integrating today’s technology into education and research? How can we me...

Discover the dynamic intersection of technology and academia in this enlightening panel discussion.

How can we uncover the opportunities and challenges in integrating today’s technology into education and research? How can we merge our university models with the technology of the future?

Join our experts as they explore innovative strategies for narrowing the divide between these two worlds.
12:20 pm - 12:40 pm

Main Room

Protecting your data in the digital age

Sarah Lawson

Chief Information Security Officer
University College London

In an era of increasing digitalisation, university leaders must ensure data security while enhancing the user experience.

Join this session to explore strategies for protecting sensitive information and privacy, all while deliver...

In an era of increasing digitalisation, university leaders must ensure data security while enhancing the user experience.

Join this session to explore strategies for protecting sensitive information and privacy, all while delivering a seamless and user-centric digital environment.
12:40 pm - 1:00 pm

Main Room

Closing Keynote: Student engagement and social mobility

Sara Prowse

Chief Executive Officer
University Academy ‘92

This closing keynote presentation will delve into their innovative approach to education, emphasising practical strategies for elevating student engagement and expanding social mobility opportunities.

Discover how UA92’s forward...

This closing keynote presentation will delve into their innovative approach to education, emphasising practical strategies for elevating student engagement and expanding social mobility opportunities.

Discover how UA92’s forward-thinking initiatives offer insights into empowering students and breaking down barriers to success.

Don’t miss this compelling discussion on shaping a brighter future for higher education and its impact on society.
1:00 pm - 1:05 pm

Main Room

Chair's Closing Remarks
1:05 pm - 1:45 pm

Main Room

Networking Lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.

Day 1
Day 2

Delivering Tangible Solutions For Real-World Issues

Delivering Tangible Solutions For Real-World Issues

HEPN North 2024

HEPN North 202427th - 28th February, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

27 February 2024

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration

8:45 am - 8:50 am

Main Room

Chair's Opening Remarks

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer University of Salford

8:50 am - 9:30 am

Main Room

Panel Discussion: How can we provide and demonstrate value for money?

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer University of Salford

Nicole Louis

Chief Operating Officer London South Bank University

Prof. Shirley Congdon

Vice Chancellor University of Bradford

9:35 am - 9:55 am

Main Room

Headline Presentation - Google: Fireside chat: In conversation with Adam Stewart

9:55 am - 10:25 am

Main Room

Dragon's Den Speed Presentations

10:30 am - 11:45 am

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

11:50 am - 12:10 pm

Main Room

Platinum Sponsor Presentation

12:10 pm - 12:30 pm

Main Room

Delivering on digital ambition and green computing goals

Prof. Mohammad Patwary

Director of Digital Innovation and Solution Centre University of Wolverhampton

12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Breaking down silos

Mohammed Aufogul

Head of Technical Design and Delivery University College London

12:55 pm - 1:15 pm

Main Room

Gold Sponsor Presentations

1:15 pm - 2:00 pm

Main Room

Networking Lunch

2:05 pm - 2:35 pm

Main Room

Group discussion on AI

Nisreen Ameen

Co-Director of Digital Organisation and Society Research Centre Royal Holloway University, London

Prof. Margherita Pagani

Director SKEMA Center for AI – SKEMA Business School

Dr Eleonora Pantano

Associate Professor in Retail and Marketing Technology University of Bristol Business School

2:40 pm - 3:25 pm

Main Room

Gold Sponsor Presentations

3:30 pm - 4:45 pm

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

4:50 pm - 5:30 pm

Main Room

Panel Discussion: How can universities scale their distance learning provisions?

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer University of Salford

Dr Margaret Korosec

Dean of Online and Digital Education University of Leeds

Dr Suzanne Smit

Programme Leader for Distance Learning MBA University of Bradford

Nicki Twin

Head of Distance Learning, Learning Development Services Anglia Ruskin University

5:35 pm - 6:00 pm

Main Room

Closing Keynote: What is the future of technology in Higher Education?

Oliver Davy

Chief Digital Officer University of Derby

HEPN North 2024

27th - 28th February, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Chief Operating Officer
London South Bank University

Vice Chancellor
University of Bradford

Director of Digital Innovation and Solution Centre
University of Wolverhampton

Head of Technical Design and Delivery
University College London

Co-Director of Digital Organisation and Society Research Centre
Royal Holloway University, London

Director
SKEMA Center for AI – SKEMA Business School

Associate Professor in Retail and Marketing Technology
University of Bristol Business School

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Dean of Online and Digital Education
University of Leeds

Programme Leader for Distance Learning MBA
University of Bradford

Head of Distance Learning, Learning Development Services
Anglia Ruskin University

Chief Digital Officer
University of Derby

Head of Digital Learning
University of Derby

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Chief Digital and Technology Officer
University of Sussex

Chief Information Officer and Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor
University of West London

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Associate Director of Digital Strategy
University of Salford

Director of Education
Manchester Metropolitan University

Former Director of Education, Senior Lecturer and Partnership Tutor
Buckinghamshire New University

Head of Anglia Teaching and Learning
Anglia Ruskin University

Chief Information Security Officer
University College London

Chief Executive Officer
University Academy ‘92

HEPN North 2024

27th - 28th February, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester