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 - 9:00 am

Main Room

Registration
9:00 am - 9:10 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.
9:10 am - 9:50 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
9:55 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

Exploiting Education: An Intelligence Analysis

Jack Alexander

Senior Threat Intelligence Consutant
Quorum Cyber

In 2024, the Higher Education sector faces many online threats from both nation states seeking to expand their own advantages, and from organised crime groups motivated by financial gain.
Join Quorum Cyber’s Senior Threat Intelli...

In 2024, the Higher Education sector faces many online threats from both nation states seeking to expand their own advantages, and from organised crime groups motivated by financial gain.
Join Quorum Cyber’s Senior Threat Intelligence Consultant, Jack Alexander, as he breaks down the current threat landscape including a dive on China and their ambitions in the sector, and the prominence of targeted ransomware campaigns.

Additionally, Jack will highlight surging threat actor trends that are currently being used in the wild to target the Higher Education sector and those who operate within it. These trends include: the leverage of Multi-Factor Authentication Fatigue, AI deep fakes, and the abundance of leaked credentials harvested by stealerware.
12:10 pm - 12:30 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.
12:35 pm - 12:55 pm

Main Room

Empowering Tomorrow’s Storytellers today

Mark Andrews

Pedagogical Evangelist
Adobe

The rapid rise of generative AI has been a paradigm shift for institutions to re-think their approaches to learning, assessment and the student experience.

Placing a focus on aspects such as; curriculum transformation, the role of...

The rapid rise of generative AI has been a paradigm shift for institutions to re-think their approaches to learning, assessment and the student experience.

Placing a focus on aspects such as; curriculum transformation, the role of authentic assessment and seeking to prepare students (and faculty) with the skills knowledge and mindsets that will help them thrive.

We will introduce you to the new Adobe Express and Adobe firefly platforms and explore the role they can play in providing access and equity to your University community to develop impactful stories, promote collaboration across disciplines.
12:55 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.
1:50 pm - 2:20 pm

Main Room

Group Discussion on AI: Generative AI in Higher Education

Dr Nisreen Ameen

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!
2:25 pm - 2:45 pm

Main Room

Admission to Alumni. How to enhance the student journey

Carl Campkin

Account Manager
RingCentral

Chris Bayliss

Head of New Business
RingCentral

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, the journey of students from admission to alumni plays a pivotal role in shaping their overall experience and success. RingCentral, a leading cloud communications provider, aims to explore in...

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, the journey of students from admission to alumni plays a pivotal role in shaping their overall experience and success. RingCentral, a leading cloud communications provider, aims to explore innovative strategies and technological solutions designed to optimize and enhance the entire student lifecycle.

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction to the Student Journey
• Challenges in the Current Educational Environment
• Admission and Onboarding Excellence
• Academic Progression and Support
• Alumni Engagement and Beyond
2:50 pm - 3:10 pm

Main Room

Maximising Academic Impact: Harness a 74% Productivity Surge with Integrated Curriculum, Workload, and Scheduling Solutions

Matt Dalton

UK Commercial Director
TimeEdit

Ever wondered if your institution could effortlessly enhance data accuracy, reduce administrative challenges, automate data checks, and boost student outcomes, all while saving costs? Join us as we explore these possibilities. Are you gr...

Ever wondered if your institution could effortlessly enhance data accuracy, reduce administrative challenges, automate data checks, and boost student outcomes, all while saving costs? Join us as we explore these possibilities. Are you grappling with the complexities of data management? Struggling with administrative burdens? Eager to discover smarter strategies to optimise academic resources and cut costs? We’ve got you covered. Witness how seamless integration can redefine efficiency in your academic operations.
3:15 pm - 4:30 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.
4:35 pm - 5:05 pm

Main Room

Fireside Chat: 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

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.
5:10 pm - 5:40 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.
5:40 pm - 5:45 pm

Main Room

Chair's Closing Remarks
6:00 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.
12:35 pm - 12:55 pm

Breakout Room 1

Advanced – Leading EdTech Solutions for Spend Management, Governance, Staff Retention, and Engagement

Mark Reddy

Global Director of Growth - Finance, Spend & Governance
Advanced

Steve Escott

Account Manager
Advanced

The Higher Education sector is facing a range of challenges and opportunities. These are posed by the need to do more with less, improve governance, and become financially sustainable.

This session will focus on how Advanced is wo...

The Higher Education sector is facing a range of challenges and opportunities. These are posed by the need to do more with less, improve governance, and become financially sustainable.

This session will focus on how Advanced is working with HE partners to address these challenges. This is achieved through the continued development of our Spend Management Solutions, Contract & Supplier Management (Source to Contract), Marketplace, and our new Governance, Risk, and Compliance solution.

Furthermore, we will discuss how our Performance and Talent solution is supporting an increasing number of organisations. These organisations are moving away from annual staff appraisals to continuous performance management.
2:25 pm - 2:45 pm

Breakout Room 1

Education 4.0: Unleashing Innovation, Resilience, and Human Potential

Michael Conlon

Education Transformation Consultant
XMA

Education 4.0 represents a fusion of physical and digital resources, integrating emerging technologies and innovative pedagogical approaches. Its purpose is to cultivate critical competencies among our students, enabling them to thrive i...

Education 4.0 represents a fusion of physical and digital resources, integrating emerging technologies and innovative pedagogical approaches. Its purpose is to cultivate critical competencies among our students, enabling them to thrive in the present and shape the future, modelled across our disciplines.

In this session we’ll explore how students and educators can leverage technology to build resilience in a period of accelerated digital innovation. If technology can carve out time for us to ask better questions, we can strive to be more human, elevating our uniqueness in being better communicators and better collaborators. We will redefine, in a new world obsessed with AI, exactly what we mean when we talk about “”Assistive Technologies.
2:50 pm - 3:10 pm

Breakout Room 1

Transforming Campus Engagement

Robert Graham

Chief Executive Officer
Poll Everywhere

In this dynamic 20-minute session, led by Robert Graham, CEO, discover how Poll Everywhere transforms classroom engagement and interaction on campuses across the globe. Since 2008, Poll Everywhere has been at the forefront of interactive...

In this dynamic 20-minute session, led by Robert Graham, CEO, discover how Poll Everywhere transforms classroom engagement and interaction on campuses across the globe. Since 2008, Poll Everywhere has been at the forefront of interactive education, offering acost-friendly student response platform that integrates seamlessly with commonly used presentation tools, and LMS platforms. This presentation will showcase the unparalleled benefits of real-time feedback and student engagement, underpinned by compelling case studies and engaging live demonstrations.
12:35 pm - 12:55 pm

Breakout Room 2

Understanding Accommodation Trends in 2024

Lee Rawlinson

Director
Homes for Students

During his time as Head of Accommodation at The University of Liverpool, Lee reflects on the impact that accommodation can have on student recruitment.

Changes in trends and student demographics are indicating an increasing level ...

During his time as Head of Accommodation at The University of Liverpool, Lee reflects on the impact that accommodation can have on student recruitment.

Changes in trends and student demographics are indicating an increasing level of volatility in the post-pandemic housing market.

o How can the sector provide more to students?
o More locations, more pricing options, more choice in room types?
o Dedicated ResLife and opportunities to engage

What are barriers to growth at your institution? Do housing pressures exist and how can this factor towards institutional planning and forecasting.

Sharing insights from over 55 cities across the UK and Ireland, Homes for Students represents over 40,000 students, all of whom study at your universities.

Where does this data lead us? How can we support your future plans?

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

Lee Rose

Assistant Director Projects CTO
University of Sussex

In this thought-provoking opening keynote presentation, Lee 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...

In this thought-provoking opening keynote presentation, Lee 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

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.
9:50 am - 10:10 am

Main Room

The Intelligent University: Navigating the Future with AI, Automation, and GenAI

Simon Williams

Solutions Director
NTT DATA Business Solutions UKI

In the dynamic realm of higher education, technology, particularly Machine Learning (ML), Automation, and Generative AI, has shifted from buzzwords to practical tools. This presentation bridges theory with practice, illustrating how thes...

In the dynamic realm of higher education, technology, particularly Machine Learning (ML), Automation, and Generative AI, has shifted from buzzwords to practical tools. This presentation bridges theory with practice, illustrating how these innovations are reshaping university operations. We explore their tangible benefits, enhancing efficiencies, decision-making, and resource optimisation. In the competitive educational landscape, utilising these technologies is essential for institutions striving for excellence. Join us for real-world examples using SAP applications, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in higher education. Our discussion covers strategic implications for core business system modernisation, guiding institutions in harnessing ML, Automation, and AI to build the foundations for the “Intelligent University.
10:15 am - 11:15 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.
11:20 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

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

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer
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.
12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Main Room

AI for Networking in Higher Education – Substance to the Hype

Simon Round

Higher Education Specialist- AI
Juniper Networks

Tom Dorr

Higher Education Lead
Roc Technologies

The session explores the role of AI in higher education networking, assessing its actual benefits amidst the hype. Session investigates how AI enhances the student experience by optimizing network performance and fostering personalized l...

The session explores the role of AI in higher education networking, assessing its actual benefits amidst the hype. Session investigates how AI enhances the student experience by optimizing network performance and fostering personalized learning environments. Furthermore, it delves into how AI drives digital transformation by automating administrative tasks, improving communication, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. Additionally, it discusses the potential for significant cost savings through AI-enabled network management and resource allocation. By scrutinizing these aspects, the session by Juniper Network and Roc Technologies aims to provide insights into the tangible advantages of AI adoption in higher education networking, while navigating through exaggerated expectations to reveal its substantive impacts.
12:30 pm - 12:50 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 deliveri...

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.
12:50 pm - 1:10 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.
1:10 pm - 1:15 pm

Main Room

Chair's Closing Remarks
1:15 pm - 2:45 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 - 9:00 am

Main Room

Registration

9:00 am - 9:10 am

Main Room

Chair's Opening Remarks

Mark Wantling

Chief Information Officer University of Salford

9:10 am - 9:50 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

9:55 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

Exploiting Education: An Intelligence Analysis

Jack Alexander

Senior Threat Intelligence Consutant Quorum Cyber

12:10 pm - 12:30 pm

Main Room

Breaking down silos

Mohammed Aufogul

Head of Technical Design and Delivery University College London

12:35 pm - 12:55 pm

Main Room

Empowering Tomorrow’s Storytellers today

Mark Andrews

Pedagogical Evangelist Adobe

12:55 pm - 1:45 pm

Main Room

Networking Lunch

1:50 pm - 2:20 pm

Main Room

Group Discussion on AI: Generative AI in Higher Education

Dr Nisreen Ameen

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

2:25 pm - 2:45 pm

Main Room

Admission to Alumni. How to enhance the student journey

Carl Campkin

Account Manager RingCentral

Chris Bayliss

Head of New Business RingCentral

2:50 pm - 3:10 pm

Main Room

Maximising Academic Impact: Harness a 74% Productivity Surge with Integrated Curriculum, Workload, and Scheduling Solutions

Matt Dalton

UK Commercial Director TimeEdit

3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

Main Room

Coffee Break and Business Meetings

4:35 pm - 5:05 pm

Main Room

Fireside Chat: 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

5:10 pm - 5:40 pm

Main Room

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

Senior Threat Intelligence Consutant
Quorum Cyber

Head of Technical Design and Delivery
University College London

Pedagogical Evangelist
Adobe

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

Account Manager
RingCentral

Head of New Business
RingCentral

UK Commercial Director
TimeEdit

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Dean of Online and Digital Education
University of Leeds

Programme Leader for Distance Learning MBA
University of Bradford

Chief Digital Officer
University of Derby

Head of Digital Learning
University of Derby

Global Director of Growth - Finance, Spend & Governance
Advanced

Account Manager
Advanced

Education Transformation Consultant
XMA

Chief Executive Officer
Poll Everywhere

Director
Homes for Students

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Assistant Director Projects CTO
University of Sussex

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

Solutions Director
NTT DATA Business Solutions UKI

Chief Information Officer
University of Salford

Director of Education
Manchester Metropolitan University

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