University of Birmingham BUAFTA Brochure 2016

8/17/2019 University of Birmingham BUAFTA Brochure 2016

1/17

W E L C O M E T O T H E

T H R O U G H

H A R D W O

R K

G R E A T

H E IGHT S AR E A C H I E V E D

P E R AR D U A

A D A L T

A 2 0 1

6


2/17

Menu

Starter

Pickled beetroot and St Maure Ash goat’s cheeseGreen apple puree, watercress salad and balsamic dressing

Main

Supreme of chickenBaby onion, button mushrooms, buttered spinach andfondant potato. Tarragon red wine sauce

Roast red pepper polenta (V)Moroccan spiced vegetables, green beansand balsamic dressing

Dessert

Rich chocolate TartMulled fruit compote and mascarpone

I am delighted to welcome you to the ninth annual BirminghamUniversity Awards for Tremendous Achievement (BUAFTAs) galaevening, where the outstanding achievements of our ProfessionalServices staff are recognised and celebrated.

I am delighted to welcome you to the ninth

annual Birmingham University Awards for

Tremendous Achievement (BUAFTAs) galaevening, where the outstanding achievements

of our Professional Services staff are

recognised and celebrated.

Our Professional Services staff are a great

asset to the University and the BUAFTAs are an

excellent reminder of the hard work undertaken

to support our breadth of activities. Our

teamwork and dedication allow the University

to continue to thrive and be successful.

I am delighted that this year there were more

than 750 BUAFTA nominations submitted

across all areas of the University, and the quality

of those nominations was better than ever. This

clearly recognises the outstanding impact our

staff make in their roles individually, in teams and

across our wider community. Congratulations

to all those nominated and especially to those

shortlisted this evening. Within this programme

you will find more information about all of

tonight’s stars and their achievements.

Of course we would be unable to celebrate

such accomplishments without the hard work

of the people who have made tonight’s galapossible. I would like to thank our judges for

selecting tonight’s stars, our sponsors for their

continued support, our committee and

champions for organising and promoting the

awards, and to everyone who took the time

to recognise outstanding achievement by

nominating a colleague or team to l et them know

that they make a real diff erence. Your support

is valued.

This year we are pleased to be raising money

for Childhood Cancer Research at the University

of Birmingham with our charity raffle. 100% of

proceeds go to the work of Dr Frank Mussai,

UoB academic and clinician at the Birmingham

Children’s Hospital, who is testing a new drug

that could save lives. I urge you to do so to

support this worthy cause.

Best wishes,

Lee Sanders

I WISH YOU ALL A WONDERFUL EVENING AND WOULD LIKE TO

AGAIN CONGRATULATE ALL OUR 2016 BUAFTA STARS.

WELCOME TO THE BUAFTAS 2016


3/17

Our hos tBUAFTA ’ s 2016

he Birmingham University Awards Forremendous Achievement celebrate thexceptional work of Professional Servicestaff across the University.

arted in 2008, they are now in their ninth year and are a much-nticipated part of the University’s calendar

We have seen more than 750 nominations this year, highlighting the

ntastic support and recognition of the awards across the Universityth so many of our staff and students inspired to nominate.

hroughout tonight’s BUAFTA celebrations we will be highlighting

oth the University and the city of Birmingham. We hope you enjoy

e evening.

he BUAFTAs are a highlight of the Birmingham Professional calendar, as they celebrate

chievement across the full breadth of Professional Services.

he Birmingham Professional affirms our commitment to Professional Services staff. It is for

veryone who works in Professional Services, irrespective of grade, where they are located ine University, or role. This includes support staff, academic-related staff, senior managers,

chnical staff, administrative staff, catering, estates, cleaning and grounds staff, nursery staff

nd security officers across all levels of the University.

he Birmingham Professional aims to help you to understand the context in which you work,

grow and develop in your current role, to connect with your peers, and to make the mostthe opportunities that are available to you. It does this by bringing together a range of

ctivities, including networking events, workshops, communities of practice and development

pportunities. You can find out more using our Resource Hub accessed via the Intranet.

he B irmingham Professiona l

@BUAFTAs

facebook.com/BUAFTAs

Rachel New

Rachel New co-hosts the Breakfast Show on Heart FM,and is an emerging writer.

In 2014 Rachel graduated from University of Birmingham with a distinction in her

Creative Writing MA and is currently studying for a PhD i n Creative Writing. Rachel

has been resident writer at the Birmingham Literature Festive in 2013 and 2014,

where she undertook the challenges ‘Ten Day Sentence’ which saw her write a

novella in 10 days, and ‘One Page Wonders’, 100 short stories produced to order

in the public glare of the Library of Birmingham.

T H R O U G H

H A R D W O

R K

G R E A T

H E IGHT S AR E A C H I E V E D

P E R AR D U A

A D A L T

A 2 0 1 6


4/17

Th is yea r ’ s cha r i t y

ighting Childhood Cancer

ore than 1500 children are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year.

his equates to more than 30 young people each week, and means that

ound 1 in 500 children will suffer from some form of cancer before they

ach 14 years of age. Urgent action is required.

Amber’s Story

mber was just a year old when she was diagnosed with acute myeloid

ukaemia (AML), one of the most devastating forms of blood cancer. After

tially responding well to chemotherapy, her condition rapidly worsened.st five months after Amber had been di agnosed, her parents were told

at doctors had run out of treatment options. Tragically, Amber passed

way on 5th March 2011. One cannot begin to imagine her parents’ grieflosing their child, yet their response was truly inspiring. They donated

sample of Amber’s blood to a team of cancer scientists led by Dr Frank

ussai. This gave Dr Mussai invaluable new insights into the way thatancer affects the immune system, and in particular revealed that cancer

ells are addicted to a particular nutrient called arginine. This kind of

scovery can take years or even decades to accomplish. It has shapedr Mussai’s research ever since, and he is now on the cusp of developing

new form of treatment for childhood cancer using the body’s own

mune system. This would be the most fitting tribute to the courage thatmber showed during her short life, as well as her parents’ astonishing

elflessness and resolve.

We may not be able to stop cancer from developing, but we can help

hildren to overcome it by creating revolutionary new treatments. Dr Frank

ussai and his team are doing just that. His research is investigating the

echanisms that enable cancer to “switch off” the human immune system,

aving the body defenceless. In simple terms, the research has two

incipal goals: firstly, to establish how cancer suppresses the immune

sponse, and secondly to develop drugs that reactivate this response by

arving cancer cells of the arginine that they need to survive. This

pproach is typical of the team’s dual focus, which combines cutting-edge

cience with an unwavering focus on clinical practice. The immune system

an incredibly powerful tool. It kills bacteria and viruses, and protects us

gainst a huge range of threats. In theory it should be able to kill cancer

ells, but for some reason it does not. Rectifying this flaw in nature’s design

ould be a momentous advance in medical science, and would unlock the

oor to a world of life-saving cures and innovative therapies.

his year’s raffle is supporting Childhood Cancer Research at the University ofBirmingham. When you buy a ticket you offer hope to children suffering with canceror whom chemotherapy hasn’t worked. 100% of proceeds go to the work of Drrank Mussai, UoB academic and clinician at the Birmingham Children’s Hospital,

who is testing a new drug that could save lives.

Ra f f l e

To support this year’s charity you can buytickets to win one of our fantastic raffle prizes:

Don’t miss the chance to buy your raffle tickettonight from a BUAFTA champion – look outfor the yellow sashes!

n B&B for one night at Conference Park

n Warwick Castle Tickets x 4n Signed Aston Villa Memorabilian Key Travel – Eurostar – a pair of tickets for travel to Paris,

Brussels or Lille, with tickets valid until November 16n £100 cashn Presentation box of 5 small different colour/scented candles

n Breakfast at Selly Sausageand more!

n Tour of BBC Studios

n 2 bottles of Champagnen Restaurant Voucher for 2 at Carters Michelin* Restaurant, Moseleyn Winterbourne House – Tour of House and Garden and Afternoon

Tea for 2 peoplen Additional Day’s leaven Use a new car for a week from SG Fleet

n Highfields Beauty – £50 voucher for any of their treatments,

valid for 12 months


5/17

Who made BUAFTAs 2016 p o s s i b l e

he BUAFTAs are the result of hard work and dedication by a committee andupport teams made up of volunteer representatives from across the University.

Ou r Judge s

This year’s BUAFTA shortlist was drawn up by our judgingpanel who have been brought together to represent a spreadof views and experience from across the University.

u r Commi t t e e

Ou r Champ i on sWe are very grateful to all of our BUAFTA Champions for their effortsthis year; the Awards would not be a success without their support.Our Champions help to promote the nomination period, encouragingnominations from staff and students, as well as selling raffle tickets tocolleagues, friends and families in support of our chosen charity.

ur Support Team

n Winterbourn, Lesley Driscoll, Charlotte Bowles, Monica Guise, Nicola Cartwright,

ona Newell, Charlotte Gill, Tamzin Knox, Lucy Guest, Javed Rehman

Left image

Charlotte Whetton, Laura Fairbanks,

Peter Hazelwood, Linda Hunter,

Kevin Herbert, Tom Stanasiuk,

Olivia Kew-Fickus, Katie Stone

ght imageruna Stecoza, Stuart Panrucker,

aura Forrest, Anna Shierson,

berto Guglielmi, Fran Peach

Our Champions

Back row, left to rightSarah Stimpson, Kevin Shepherd, Sindhu Patil,

Sophie Kusicka, Richard Clayton, Nisha Williams,

Ali Wright, Rachel McCairn, Karina Smith.

Jonathon Face, Kim Ekste

XXXXXXXXX

Front row, left to right

Becki Timmings, Helen Webb,

Sandra Hayes, Yvonne Mullan-Evans

XXXXXXXXX

Not in photo

Stuart Panrucker, Fran Peach. Mark Clayton,

Lovely Mwambazi, James Hall, Charlotte Smith

XXXXXXXXX

Our Judges

Daisy Lindlar, Stuart Richards, Catherine Wardius,

Alessandro Mottura, Professor Myra Nimmo,

Sarah Jeffery, Chris Campbell-Kelly


6/17

CoSS Strategic Framework Team

College of Social Sciences

The team has worked together to create a College strategy that will

support the new University Strategic Framework 2015–2020. They have

taken this to an excellent level by creating a digital resource that ensuresthat the CoSS intranet and supporting content is best in class. They

demonstrated excellent project management skills, creativity and

collaboration across the College to ensure that the strategy supports the

four pillars of Research, Education, Influence and Resources and will

deliver the goals of the University whilst giving staff clear direction and

support over the next five years. They have created a digital platform which

is innovative and inspirational and showcases our vision. The team have

created a template and set a standard that has enabled other Colleges

to follow suit and deliver on their aspirational strategies.

Birmingham Qur’an Project

Hospitality and Accommodation Services, External Relations, Academic

Services and the College of Arts and Law

The Birmingham Qur’an Exhibition drew in expertise from HAS, External

Relations, Academic Services and the College of Arts and Law. The project

team incorporated specific areas of expertise from corporate services to deliver

the maximum impact possible. Working collaboratively the team managed all

aspects of exhibition delivery – exhibition content, graphic design, press

coverage, ticketing, security, facilities management and customer experience.

The three week exhibition was visited by 8212 individuals plus 592 school

students. As part of school sessions, 26 talks were delivered. Exhibition

facilitators were recruited from existing students and trained in the Cadbury

Research Library. International visitors came from as far afield as the UnitedStates, Kuwait, Dubai, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Team o f t h e Y ea r

Recognising a team that is acknowledged as high performing andhat works exceptionally well as a team, using the skills of all membersroductively. Teams may be formal or ad hoc, functional or multi-

unctional/cross-institutional, and permanent or temporary.

Our f ina l ists

Postgraduate Virtual Open Day (PGVOD) project team

External Relations

The team has developed a sector leading platform that is tailored to the needs

of prospective postgraduate applicants by offering a suite of interactive,

discipline-focused online material. The platform allows the University to offerprofessional online presentations alongside physical events. Developing live,

pre-recorded or on-demand events provides additional and attractive

information to drive and maintain engagement with prospective students.

The new platform has improved access to accurate programme information,

taster lectures, and timetables. Short films presented by current postgraduates

and alumni talk about their motivations for study, their feedback on and

satisfaction with our PG programmes, and their career outcomes. The targeted

use of existing UoB postgraduate students working as ‘advocates’ can

improve the student experience by offering mentoring and peer-to-peer advice

sessions to prospective postgraduates. The platform is been praised for its

innovative and informative content by both academic programme leads and

prospective students.

Sports Maintenance team

Estates

The Sports Maintenance Team prepared and maintained the Bournbook

rugby pitch to a world class standard to host South Africa during the

Rugby World Cup. Stringent testing was carried out over 16 months, the

pitch was prepared to an even higher standard than necessary, and on a

par with world class stadia including Wembley and Twickenham. In the

build up to the South African team arriving the team worked 3 consecutive

weekends, preparing and repairing the pitch.

The Rugby World Cup committee were so impressed with what they hadachieved that they commented “it’s like someone has picked up

Twickenham and dropped it in Birmingham!” This alone will have spread

word of the University’s ability to host world class sporting events.

Portering Team

Hospitality and Accommodation Services

The Porters team were commended by a variety of departments within the

University. They make things happen, they are pleasant to work with and they

undertake jobs that others don’t want to do. They are often in the background

and unseen but they do an excellent job. In going above and beyond for us

on high pressure events they show the University in a very good light for our

external stakeholders.

Working well together, the team are happy to help in a friendly and

welcoming way, adding to the positive experience that we hope our visitors

will have with us whilst they are on campus.

Sponsored by Couch Perry Wilkes

Couch Perry Wilkes was founded on a phi losophy of delivering buildings with passion, creativity

and technical expertise, and we specialise in designing and integrating the full range of energy

solutions into existing and new buildings. We aim to deli ver energy efficient schemes that are

financially and environmentally sustainable. We are delighted to support the University

of Birmingham in sponsoring the Team of the Year Award.


7/17

BIA Administration Team

Academic Services

During an exceptionally busy summer, the BIA Admin Team have

supported students and teachers alike in an outstandingly friendly and

efficient way. This year, the Birmingham International Academy hastransitioned from its previous existence as EISU. Alongside the managerial

reshaping that this has entailed, the BIA Admin Team have needed to

contend with new government regulations on the IELTS test and changing

VISA policies. They have been flexibly supporting ISAS during a very hectic

summer and have dealt with an increased number of applications from

prospective students in a tremendous way.

Shaun Willetts

IT Services

Shaun exemplifies excellent customer service, consistently going the extra

mile to ensure staff members and students alike receive the best p ossible

service when experiencing IT difficulties. Shaun approaches every instance

amiably and professionally, always explaining his intervention and outlining

steps that can be taken to avoid similar problems in future.

Shaun’s proactive approach is matched by his enthusiasm for ensuring

jobs are done right first time, and his expertise in a seemingly limitless array

of technical areas.

Excep t i o n a l Cu s t ome r Se r v i c e

Recognising an individual who makes the University a better place to work.his may include those who maintain our physical environment, ensureompliance, support others in delivering their roles, or perform other functions

whose importance and value may only be widely noticed in their absence.

Our f ina l ists

Samuel Ingram

Academic Services

As Project Manager, Sam has played an integral role in the move to the new

Aston Webb Student Hub. This was a complex project involving multiple teams

moving from a number of locations across campus during a critical time periodas teams prepared for Welcome. Sam had the unenviable role of balancing the

need to move teams quickly and efficiently to ensure continuity of service for

students/colleagues, with the challenges of moving into a completely new

environment.

Sam took an active role in all aspects of the move, quickly becoming known as

the ‘go to’ person for any Hub-related query. Sam ensured these were dealt

with quickly and held colleagues and suppliers to high standards. He regularly

went above and beyond to make the move go as smoothly as possible,

whether it was carrying crates, installing PCs or staying over weekends to

ensure everything happened as it should.

Stephanus Sanjaya


Stephanus always offers exemplary service, whether in the VCs suite,

in Staff House or in the Hospitality Suite at Muirhead Tower. He is

always immaculately turned out, endeavours to use the customers’

names at all times and remembers their quirks, dietary requirements and

drink requirements. Over the past year he has started running functions,

and taking more responsibility. He always receives great feedback.

Stephanus is always charming and polite, and customers love him!

Adam Walker

Estates

Adam has been working with colleagues in Student Accommodation, HAS

to implement a new card access system for student bedrooms and flat

doors. The first site to go live was Chamberlain, with 726 bedrooms

which opened in September. Adam has been working with the team on

this high profile project for over 2 years in getting the specification drawn

up, presentations from interested companies, and a review of tender

submissions to selecting the preferred supplier. The system also had to

interface with the accommodation software system which was a first for

this particular type of technology. Adam spent many hours over and above

his normal working hours supporting the team with his knowledge of door

access to ensure the best possible outcome.

Sponsored by GV Multi-media

GV Multi-media are a national Audio Visual Solutions Provider, with many years’ experience

in the design, supply and installation of AV. As a major supplier to the University of Birmingham

for many years, GV are again delighted to sponsor the Team Player of the Year award.


8/17

Gavin David James Harper

Engineering and Physical Sciences

Gavin joined the University January 2015 as Energy Development

Manager. This was soon after the creation of the Birmingham Energy

Institute. He has established himself as the go to energy person inthe University. He has not only been key in the delivery of the publicity

material (website content, brochures, event organisation) but has led the

organisation of the Policy Commission on Cold, the coordination of the

report writing, production and writing of elements of the content. He has

worked night and day and through illness to deliver a very high quality

report which will place the University in the leading position in this sector

from a policy perspective. The rapid acceleration from someone completely

new to the University to mastery of the system, with effective exploitation

marks him out as someone with an i mpressive career ahead.

Anne Simper

Finance

Anne has quite simply rejuvenated the role of Business engagement

partner, bringing not only a wealth of experience but crucially a very

positive and infectiously optimistic attitude.

Her colleagues say she brings an energy and a dynamism that is infectious.

Anne has succeeded in re-engaging a broad range of staff who has in the

past tried to engage with industry but had little success. Her enthusiasm

and tenacious approach has meant that this has paid off.

Newcomer o f the Yea r

Recognising a recently-appointed individual who has been pro-active in implementingetter practice, or who has had a positive effect within a department, generatingesults in a relatively short time. Consideration will be given to those who have movedo a new role, as well as those who have recently joined the University.

Our f ina l ists

Michelle Arnold

College of Arts and Law

Michelle has embedded into the fabric of a diverse School extremely quickly,

with acceptance from all staff. She is highly valued and has ingratiated her

role through support and understanding whilst encouraging change.

Michelle has managed to exceed her objectives in timetabling bringing

forward her achievements to within her first year rather than her second.

She is a key support to the Head of Quality and was instrumental in the

HER return. Her submission, along with one other, was used as a best

practice template for other Schools within CAL.

Deanne Brettle

Life and Environmental Sciences

On just 0.4 of a full-time post and from a ‘standing start’, Deanne

organised, sustained, and enlarged a stakeholder base of Birmingham

academics, external research partners, and research end-users for one

of the university’s landmark research initiatives. With no previous

experience in Higher Education, and so in the middle of a steep learning

curve, Deanne offered immediate and ongoing help with activities that

she could easily have left to academic colleagues. By simplifying our story

and relating it back always to things we all like to see, smell and touch,

Deanne has enabled the Institute to reach young children in ways that are

far more appropriate than anything suggested by the academics. Applying

real creative flair to the design of our promotional material, Deanne has

also greatly improved the Institute’s reach out into the general public,

the private sector, government, and non-governmental organisations.

Josefine Susann Frank

Academic Services

Josefine has won a large grant to enable work on the Mingana Collection,

the university’s collection of middle eastern manuscripts, which includes

the Birmingham Qur’an. Josefine has been cataloguing the collection online

to make it more visible to scholars. She has been working with community

groups and schools to increase awareness of the manuscripts and

encourage a wider group of people to visit the university and take

advantage of its cultural collections. Josefine has organised the exhibition

of the Birmingham Qur’an, which has attracted a high level of public

interest and enthusiasm. Josefine’s level of commitment, professionalism

and expertise in all she does is a credit to the university

Sponsored by Pertemps

With over 50 years’ experience, Pertemps are specialists in the supply of commercial, professional

and industrial recruitment throughout the UK. They are delighted to be in partnership with the

University of Birmingham, providing recruitment solutions for all their staffing needs. Pertemps

are delighted to sponsor the Best Newcomer Award.


9/17

Mary Li


In 2015, the College of EPS proposed the unification of the three School of

Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering into one School of Engineering.

Mary was responsible for reviewing and remodelling the entire teachingsupport function of the three existing Schools (involving c 30 staff) and, once

the proposals were approved, undertaking the formal consultation exercise

and appointment of staff to new roles. Mary’s work was informed by her role

on the Professional Services Transition Group and her role as Secretary to

the CAL Review of Professional Services; the latter was a role which she

was invited to undertake by the Director of Operations in CAL because of

her professionalism, knowledge and expertise.

LSS-MDS Realignment Change Team

College of Medical and Dental Sciences

The Life Sciences Strategy (LSS) MDS Change Team ensured effective

delivery of the very significant operational and business systems changes

required to ensure implementation of the new MDS academic structure

approved by UEB. The work was undertaken in addition to core business

delivery and in a period of considerable transition for many staff. Large

volumes of complex information for all 1600 MDS staff and their associated

research and teaching activity was remapped, including Institute alignment,

research grants, cost centres, access to student records systems etc. The

work was delivered in partnership with key academic and professional

services stakeholders and communicated widely.

Excep t i ona l Change Leade rsh ip

Recognising an individual or a team who has led or significantly contributedo the successful implementation of change at the University, whether thentroduction of something new or the overhaul of an existing activity.

Our f ina l ists

Open Access Advocacy

Strategic Planning

Karen and Suzanne have together been visiting Colleges, Schools and

departments to promote a better understanding of the Open Access

requirements for REF, and to show academic colleagues how they canachieve compliance, which is essential for the next REF. Requirements are

complex and achieving buy-in challenging, given the change in behaviours

required of academics. Karen and Suzanne have presented the message

clearly and compellingly, answered the endless questions raised patiently,

and followed up where required with individual academics. In short, they have

made a difficult and unwelcome message much clearer for academic

colleagues to understand and easier for them to comply with.

Dee Drapkin

Academic Services

Dee led on the office move for Careers Network (a team of circa 60 staff)

to the new Student Hub. Dee made the experience an inclusive and

transparent one, getting a CN staff ‘hub move’ working group together

(featuring representation from each CN team) to discuss and identify both

potential issues and possible solutions. She established a number of

different communication channels for sharing information, such as a

dedicated white-board (in one of our communal areas) on which staff could

add questions and receive a response. For Careers, there were several

specific logistical complications – such as the fact we had occupied our

old offices for a considerable number of years; we have a large amount of

printed and promotional materials; the BRP Team had a fixed deadline for

moving in; and we have a large number of staff who work part-time or

have to take A/L over the summer.

James Kelly (Institute of Clinical Sciences)


James has been instrumental in effecting great change among 80+ academics

in getting them to use wifi Tablets for live assessment and feedback to

clinical dental students treating their patients at the Dental Hospital. He has

achieved this through exemplary lateral leadership , dealing confidently and

supportively with a full range of academic personality types and seniorities.

Although nominally employed as an expert in App software development,

and instrumental in designing the Clinical and Assessment Feedback

System (CAFS), he has moved far beyond this narrow skill into the role of

Champion for a new technology that initially had much ‘fear of change’

opposition from our clinical teachers.

CAFS is now a fully established and integrated tool that has collected over

200,000 grades and feedback-to-students comments.

Robinson Low Francis LLP

Robinson Low Francis are proud of their 20 year involvement on the University Campus and their

contribution to many of the major development projects including Muirhead Tower, the Business

School, the Materials and Metallurgy building and, most recently, the new Indoor Sports Centre.

Better known on campus and beyond as RLF, this organisation mainly provides quantity surveying

and cost consultancy services to the University as part of the University’s Quantity Surveying

Framework Agreement, but they also provide other construction related consultancy services.

Robinson Low Francis are delighted to be sponsoring the Vice-Chancellor’s Award.


10/17

Robert Hall


Bob came to the University as a trainee and has devoted his life work to

the support of teaching. His knowledge of his subject is first rate and will

approach all tasks with the same enthusiasm and expertise. Bob is alwayscoming up with ideas how teaching practical skills can be delivered and is

highly thought of from all of his colleagues. Many of his colleagues are

amazed at his knowledge and experience.

Bob was instrumental in support to final year students under taking research

projects which included building a seal skeleton from what was basically a

large bag of bones.

Denise Thomson


Denise has introduced new administrative procedures to streamline the

administrative burden of this complex MSc programme which has several

different cohorts, plus CPD students, on its modules at the same time.

The programme has had a number of different administrators over the last

few years, all with different systems of working, who have stored information

in different places. Denise has taken the initiative and produced standardised

templates for letters, mail merges to generate lecturer invites from timetables

and better systems for tracking the progress of students, all of which has

meant that the programme runs more efficiently.

Exce l l e n t Suppo r t f o r T e ach i ng and L e a rn i n g

Recognising an individual or team who makes a significant contribution tonsuring that teaching and learning is of the highest standard. For example thisould involve support for curriculum development or educational environments,taff development, technical support or other teaching and learning support.

Our f ina l ists

Kelly Chilton-Davies


The performance of the School of Physics in the National Student Survey

(NSS) has over the last 4 years been consistently high. The teaching

support office is the main contact point for the students in resolvingorganisational issues and is the key component in ensuring that the School

runs smoothly from the teaching perspective.

Kelly has held together the teaching support provided to the School under

this period of enormous pressure, working above and beyond. Her endless

positivity and resilience got the School through a difficult period with an

unblemished NSS record.

Helen Evans


Helen is the human form of ‘OK Google’ where the department MSc

courses are concerned. Her knowledge of the complexity of options that a

student can take is unrivalled, enabling students to can get the best out of

the course.

Helen has encouraged students to think about different choices that would

be beneficial for them. A student who graduated in the summer on the back

of Helen’s suggestion quoted ‘completing the MSc was a critical factor to

enable me to undertake a change i n my role with my current employer’.

Ruth GermanCollege of Social Sciences

Ruth single-handedly has supported the team of Li beral Arts and Natural

Sciences staff and also the students for over a year. Not only has Ruth

been instrumental is helping this programme to become established, but

she provides us all with individual support on a daily basis. Ruth is generally

the person who both staff and students go to with their problems and she

always helps in a calm and friendly manner.

Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences is a unique programme in that it is very

complex and involves a good understanding of how all the schools in the

University work and requires a good working relationship with all of these

people. Ruth manages this very successfully, even when dealing with

difficult tasks and she always does it with a smile!

Sponsored by Mr Brendan Casey, Director of

Academic Services and College Administration


11/17

Adrian Powney

College of Arts and Law

Adrian is a fine example of a true professional. He works tirelessly hard to

promote SHaC’s welfare team, and promotes the importance of diversity

throughout the College. His pro-active approach has helped students todeal with difficulties, and I’m convinced has helped many to stay on at

University to complete their degrees. I see him as our unsung hero, who is

naturally kind, and cares so much about helping those who are the most

vulnerable at our University. His work was highlighted by the panel of The

Times Leadership and Management Award as one of the significant reasons

as to why the team won the Outstanding Departmental Administration

Team award 2015.

Sally Schofield


Sally is the Admissions Tutor for the School of Mathematics but works

above and beyond her remit to provide a fantastic student experience for

current students enhancing the student experience tremendously which

impacts positively on the NSS. Sally initiated a School trip to Coniston and

due to the popularity of student attendance this is now an annual event for

the School. This year will be the fourth year and includes UG, PGT and

PGR students. Sally organises gatherings for International students to

enhance their student experience by providing further opportunities for the

students to become familiar with the programme of study and the learning

that takes place within the School. Sally make applicants and current

students feel welcome, she encourages and allows each student to have

the best experience.

The S tuden t Expe r ience Award

Recognising an individual or team whose work helps to create a distinctive,igh-quality and enhanced student experience at Birmingham. Consideration

will be given to those who work directly with students as well as those whowork behind the scenes.

Our f ina l ists

The Raymond Priestley Centre


The creation of powerful learning experiences that students enjoy and from

which they develop inter personal skills are crucial for effective team work

that they can use back on campus and in future employment.

This is facilitated by Centre staff who have created a learning environment

in which students feel confident to step out of their comfort zone, take on

responsibility, challenge themselves and extend their skill base.

Comments from staff and students clearly indicate that the time spent at the

Centre has been highly valued. The Centre’s commitment to delivering high

quality programmes has provided a fantastic experience for students, with

98.8% of feedback forms indicating overall satisfaction with their visit to

the Centre.

The Welcome Weekend Maintenance Team

Estates

Moving to a University is a big step for many young people and the transition

is made much easier for them with the Maintenance Welcome Weekend

Team sorting out any problems quickly with appliances, fixtures and fittings

in their accommodation. The Team work tirelessly every year for long hours

over this weekend to give the new students the best service possible and a

memorable and impressionable welcome to the campus.

Parents and students will make a decision on what the University has to

offer as soon as they arrive to drop off their son/daughter for their first time

at University. What they perceive in the first few moments of arriving and the

service they are given will help them to decide what they think of the

University and what it is offering their child/themselves.

Vicki Phillips

Academic Services

Countless disabled students whose cases might otherwise have been lost

within such a large institution, or who might otherwise have been disadvantaged

through having to interrupt their studies while their cases were resolved, or have

dropped out altogether, have been enabled to achieve their academic potential

thanks to Vicki’s excellent work. Single-handedly, she protects the institution

from any exposure to the risk of litigation under the Equality Act by ensuring

these cases are resolved fairly and without any delay.

The clarity and accuracy of the information she provides allows obstacles

affecting our students’ registration to be resolved swiftly meaning that any

interruption to their studies can often be avoided or enabling them to get back

on track with their studies with the minimum delay. She is a shining example of

how one individual’s performance behind the scenes can benefit the mental

health of the student community as a whole.

Sponsored by sgfleet UK Limited

sgfleet are a professional fleet management company and are the providers of the University

of Birmingham’s Fuel Efficient Car Lease Scheme. The name of the scheme is Novalease,

which is a cost and tax effective way of obtaining a new car and enjoying all the benefits of hassle

free motoring that this brings, including excellent fuel efficiency. sgfleet are delighted to sponsor

the Idea of the Year Award.


12/17

Sally Wiley

Finance

The University has established a formal collaboration with the European

Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), the in-house scientific service

of the Commission, which employs over 2000 scientists.

From scratch and no prior experience, Sally was instrumental in developing

this relationship.

Thanks to her, it grew within a short time from a discovery roundtable to a

legally-binding 3-year collaboration agreement, signed by Professor

Eastwood in Oct 2014 in Brussels. It was unheard of within the JRC and a

big reputational coup for Birmingham.

Since then, it has grown into a substantial body of work with Sally

continuing to initiate targeted activities. In particular, Sally has been central

in ensuring actions actually took place. All involved agree that little would

have happened without this driving force behind everyone.

Jennie Young


Jennie is a Trial Coordinator in the Breast Trials Group within the Cancer

Research UK Clinical Trials Unit (CRCTU). She is responsible for a

government funded clinical trial called LORIS, which aims to reduce

unnecessary breast surgery. LORIS is a complex and particularly high

profile project, attracting both national and international interest, which

was recently mentioned in the acclaimed ‘TIME’ magazine.

Jennie also supports a team of central review pathologists, all based at

different institutions, each playing a critical role in the successful deliveryof the trial.

Exce l l e n t Suppo r t f o r Re s ea r ch

Recognising an individual or team whose work supports attracting, delivering,r promoting high-quality research or research impact. Consideration will beiven to those who work directly with academic staff and/or students as wells those whose role indirectly supports research.

Our f ina l ists

David Boardman

Finance

David has worked tirelessly to co-ordinate and organise the research groups

within EPS in to clusters with a clear focus that can be understood by both

internal and external stakeholders. The prime example of this being theBirmingham Energy Insitute (BEI), however David’s influence is strategically

important projects of scale extends beyond energy in to rail, infrastructure

and in the China market. The vision, laterall thinking, dedication and

enthusiasm shown by David is outstanding and a sets an excellent example

to colleagues in professional services and academia alike.

The Energy Research Accelerator project is a major regional government

initiative led by the Treasury. The coordination provided by David and the

careful, rigorous, approach to getting the detail right and building consensus

has helped build confidence around this project. The ERA investment will see

step change in the energy research capability, new facilities, staff and

enhanced revenue streams from industry, EPSRC, Horizon2020 and

Innovate-UK.

David Evans (RIS)

College of Social Sciences

David has been at the forefront of Research Support in CoSS for a number

of years, facilitating research and impact activities for academic colleagues,

and stewarding team members to always strive to go the extra mile. Having

recently been promoted to Research Support Partner, he has steered

the team through a period of significant change due to high staff turnover

and departmental restructuring. The CRSO’s reputation for success and

excellent customer service has been kept in tact throughout this period,

and it is testament to David’s strong leadership that changes behind the

scenes have gone almost unnoticed across the CRSO’s core customerbase, with no drop in service delivery. An example of the outstanding

support David offers the team was witnessed recently when he voluntarily

devoted his own time to helpi ng a temporary team member reaching the

end of their contract to apply for new roles.

Anna Lawson (Clinical Trials – CCTU)


Anna’s commitment to ensuring that the University of Birmingham continues

to be the leading UK institution in the delivery of clinical trials for children

with cancer can be evidenced by her contribution to a recent successful

European Commission Horizon 2020 application. Anna worked tirelessly on

behalf of her academic colleagues to ensure that the’ Chiltern’ application

was of outstanding quality and submitted on time despite very tight

deadlines. This resulted in the University leading on a successful 7.9million

Euro award (which we believe is the largest EC award granted to the

University). Her attitude and commitment to her work and the delivery of

clinical trials for children with cancer should be commended.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with revenues of $17 billion and

approximately 50,000 employees in 50 countries. Our mission is to enable our customers to makethe world healthier, cleaner and safer. We help our customers accelerate life sciences research, solve

complex analytical challenges, improve patient diagnostics and increase laboratory productivity.


13/17

Roxanne Mclean


The College of Arts and Law is well known for its excellent record for student

recruitment both for undergraduate and postgraduate market and Roxanne

Mclean has definitely had a positive impact on sustaining those efforts. Thishas been achieved through her hard-work nature, putting 100% effort into

every single project, pioneering new initiatives (e.g. a recent Digital

filming-making MOOC having record breaking registration figures) and

motivating a significantly large and new team.

In Roxanne’s role as College Marketing and Communications Manager, the

exceptional recruitment figures for the College are testament to her hard

working attitude and ability to motivate a large team. Roxanne is generally

one of the first to arrive in the office, and almost always the last to leave.

Maria Thi Bui

Academic Services

Maria has overall responsibility for the running of the University’s central

examinations (which there are over 1,500), and is involved in every element

of the process – from booking rooms and scheduling, to developing

procedures and training staff. She is the main point of contact for all School/

Department Administrators, Operations Managers and Examinations

Officers. She manages 140 invigilators, including both budget forecasting

and facilitating payments.

Outside of examination periods, she is involved in annually reviewing and

improving the exams processes, procedures around student complaints

arising from examinations, research projects for SMT (for example on the use

of academics as Senior Invigilators), and has regularly been Floor Manager

at degree congregations getting involved in as much as she can to supportthe University. In addition, many will know her as a ‘social secretary’ within

AS, and testament to her character is the number of good friendships with

colleagues she has developed.

Unsung He ro ’ o f the Yea r

Recognising an individual who makes the University a better place to work.his may include those who maintain our physical environment, ensureompliance, support others in delivering their roles, or perform other functions

whose importance and value may only be widely noticed in their absence.

Our f ina l ists

Hemalata Chahal


Hema Chahal has worked as a research technician for almost 25 years.

Since moving to the QE Hema has ensured that a disparate group of people

gelled and bedded in successfully to a very different working environment.Hema is the go to person, ensuring with her positive attitude that there is a

collegiate atmosphere with researchers sharing resources, skills and time.

The Institute of Inflammation and Ageing contains military personnel carrying

out research in the UK but also whilst deployed in Afghanistan. Hema

maintained contact through this difficult period, ensuring samples were

received and dealt with no matter what time of day or night they arrived.

Gemma Davies

UoB Sport

Gemma has worked far beyond her contracted coaching hours to support

and nurture the growth of over 60 students in the women’s football club,

instigating a huge number of projects to provide community links and

opportunities for real-life work experience. She has worked on projects

including a mentoring scheme with Birmingham Met College, a

Schools Football Tournament

Gemma mentored three volunteer coaches while studying for her own

UEFA B licence and also implemented player 1–1s, supporting both

football and getting the right life balance for all team members

Gemma has done all of this above and beyond her remit and has enriched

the club, allowing them to achieve things in the community that one would

more likely associate with a professional sports team.

Trevor Hayward


Trevor has advised, supported, assisted, motivated and been an inspiration

to the School of Dentistry Research Laboratory team, during the ups and

downs of the moving process to the ‘New Build’ Dental Hospital and

School of Dentistry.

Trevor’s calm and relaxed manner make him very approachable and he is

well respected by all who know him. He is always prepared to go the extra

mile. He meets with the lab staff at the School of Dentistry on a monthly

basis and this helps them feel connected to the University. The NHS

members of the lab staff also attend these meetings and will actively go to

Trevor for help and advice as they know he will help them as much as the

UoB staff.

Sponsored by Office Depot

Office Depot provide business supplies and services to help our customers work better – whatever

their workplace. We are a single source for everything customers need to be more productive,

including the latest technology, core office supplies, print and document services, business

services, facilities products, furniture, and education essentials. We are very proud of our

longstanding association supporting the Higher Education Sector across the UK, in particular our

partnership of over 25 years with the University of Birmingham. Office Depot are delighted to be

sponsoring the ‘Unsung Hero of the Year’ Award.


14/17

Helen Murray

CAL Student Experience Manager

Helen’s contribution to the student experience goes beyond that of CAL

students. The pioneering development of the Bank has led the way on

campus for the development of analogous resources. Over the past yearHelen worked with colleagues in Student Services to develop a new

Professional Services mentoring scheme for students. The interest shown by

Professional Services staff exceeded all expectations and 50 mentors were

trained. This has enabled Professional Services staff to develop their own

skills and experience and enabled them to give something more to the

students who study at Birmingham. In developing this scheme Helen

identified personal development needs but more importantly her creative

energy and zeal has given others the opportunity to develop themselves in

new and rewarding ways. Now cited in NSS, BSS feedback and External

Examiner reports, without Helen’s supreme professionalism the Bank would

not be the success it is.

Alexandra Parish

Interim Director of Operation

Alexandra Parish has been responsible for overseeing all operational aspects

of the development of the new University of Birmingham School. The School

is a giant achievement for the University. It has involved collaboration from

almost every department. Through Alexandra’s leadership the School has

already gained an excellent reputation. Alexandra has demonstrated how

positivity and perseverance can galvanise a movement and produce an

outstanding achievement for the University, The University is the first in the

country to open a UTS and as such Ali has superbly managed not only a

wide range of internal relationships but some extremely important external

relationships. Most importantly Alexandra has ensured the University and city

of Birmingham has a School it can be proud of.

B i rm ingham P ro f e s s i o n a l o f t h e Y ea r

Recognising an individual who embodies the values of the Birmingham Professional. It is open to allrofessional Services staff, irrespective of grade or type of role. The winner will be someone who,y excelling in their own role, helps the University to excel and stands out as an example to others.heir approach will be characterised by consistently high standards, building strong relationships withthers, and taking responsibility for their own development.

Our f ina l ists

Richard Clayton

Application Services Bespoke Sustenance Manager

Richard is highly, intelligent and focused, but also highly personable and

engaging. In whatever task or endeavour he undertakes he does it to the

highest standards and effectively communicates with all members of staff.His enthusiasm and ability to analyse and contribute effectively mean that he

is quite rightly in demand not only within IT Services but in wider projects and

initiatives. Since taking on the role of Sustenance Manager Richard has

become a strong and inspirational leader during a huge period of change.

Richard is also presenting a paper at a major HE IT conference on the ways

of working he has introduced at Birmingham. The improvement in the

reputation of IT Services over the past few months is very much down to the

work that Richard has done.

Kara Griffiths

Communications and Engagement Manager – Estates Development

Kara has worked tirelessly to ensure that each new development is used

effectively to engage with relevant local and regional stakeholders. She

brings together colleagues from across the University and has helped

create a shared agenda and vision and built excitement amongst our

diverse audience groups throughout the build period – from exciting

prospective students at open days, to keeping current students engaged in

the developments and keeping neighbours, community groups and

politicians onside. Kara has given up many evenings and weekends to

attend planning consultations to try and convince local residents of the

positive impact the University brings and counter the negative narrative

drawing on her own enthusiasm and passion for the University. Kara always

takes an innovative approach and was responsible for the development of

the University’s 3D film – a first for the sector.

Kat Grover

Schools Liaison and Outreach Officer

Kat has positively impacted the university by building up the outreach for the

college. She has not been afraid to get her hands dirty with all the physical

work that running these events entails. She has taken the role of Schools

Liaison and Outreach Officer and made it her own. She has involved herself

in the Public Engagement Working Group for the university and is forging

useful links for the college in this way. She has run a number of very big

events successfully which have contributed strongly to our outreach situation

both as a School and as a college. She actively seeks out opportunities to be

trained and is not afraid to try things to see if they work. Kat excels in her role

and is an outstanding example for and to the university.

Shaylor Group plc

Shaylor Group plc have a long established relationship carrying out construction projects for the

University of Birmingham, recent successful projects include the phased refurbishment of Jarratt

Hall students accommodation and the construction of the BIFoR climate change research facility in

Staffordshire, BIFoR has recently been awarded a national Health and Safety award.


15/17

QT Hub professional services team

Working together as part of a cross-functional project group to support the

academic community, this team were instrumental in the development of the

UoB input to the bid from a consortium of Universities to secure the award of

a UK Quantum Technology Hub. The Hub will create technology that couldhelp numerous problems in industry. The award of the Hub has already

secured significant press coverage both nationally and internationally, thus

helping to profile the University on a global stage for pioneering research.

With engagement from 70 industrial partners already secured, this

demonstrates the real potential that the Hub will have for showing the

genuine impact of our research as well as providing a solid platform for

spring-boarding many more partnerships with industry. It is important that

the University is leading this technology, which is seen to be at the forefront

of the second industrial revolution.

University School Project Team

As the first University secondary school in the country, this project has

attracted much interest both at a regional, national and sector level, with

extensive positive media coverage surrounding the University’s backing for

the project and the aims of the School to transform and enrich the lives of

its pupils.

The pioneering nature of this, in conjunction with some tight timescales,

meant that relatively small team frequently had to work ‘above and beyond’

in order to successfully overcome challenges, devise solutions and meet

deadlines throughout the project. As the School approached completion,

there were some heroic efforts by the team to see through the completion

of the building, recruitment of the 6th form and the opening of the School

to its first cohorts of pupils on 10th September. The project have positivity

demonstrated the University’s commitment to the city and taking the leadwith innovation in education.

The V i c e -Chance l l o r ’ s Awa rd

Our f ina l ists

The Qur’an team

This unique find was exhibited sensitively and gained global and regional

recognition. The dedicated Qur’an team worked together to make this

exhibition an outstanding success. An exhibition of this kind, with the high

security risks had never been done at the University before. The exhibitionsaw over 8122 visitors, brochure sales of £6500, and included 2 VIP events.

With 800 members of staff, 18 schools with 592 students, 12 countries, 13

community organisations, and coverage that reached across the globe it

was a real team effort.

Joanna Labudek

Head of Undergraduate Admissions

The Confirmation and Clearing operation is integral to the University’s

continued success. Jo is responsible for the organization of the annual

Confirmation and Clearing exercise, which this year was praised by the

Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar and Secretary as being ‘sector leading’.

The operation is incredibly well pl anned and managed so that it runs

smoothly and without any problems. It allows undergraduate students to

have their University places confirmed without a hitch following the receipt

of their results and through the clearing process.

Circles of Influence TeamThe University’s Circles of Influence campaign closed on 31st July 2015

after having raised in excess of £193.4 million. The original target was

£60million which was then raised to £160million. This success makes the

Circles of Influence the most successful fundraising campaign of any charity

in the Midlands, and the most successful campaign of any UK university

outside the golden triangle of Oxbridge and London.

The campaign has resulted in a renaissance of philanthropy at the University.

The opportunities to work collaboratively on campaign projects have

provided a gateway to increase the scope and use of alumni volunteers in

many areas of University life, further enriching the lives of our students.

his premier BUAFTA recognises an individual or team whose work hasad a significant and lasting impact on the University’s reputation and standing.heir work is recognisably ‘best in class’ and demonstrates major achievement

n challenging circumstances.

Sponsored by Gresham Office Furniture

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and designers of contract furniture, Gresham are always

looking for new innovations and technologies and that’s why they are proud to be sponsoring

the Change Leader of the Year Award. With over 30 years’ experience, Gresham pride themselves

on developing high quality, functional furniture solutions and are renowned for their first class

customer service.


16/17

Committed to charity investment.

Who can tailor your bespoke portfolio?

We have over £5.3 billion under management for charities*

Our skill and expertise in managing charities’ investments isrenowned and could be why we are one of the largest fundmanagers in the sector.

Please note that the value of shares and the income from them can fall as well as rise and you may not get back the amount originally

invested. This can be a result of market movements and also of variations in the exchange rates between currencies.

*Source data as at 31.12.15. Sarasin & Partners LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registerednumber OC329859 and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. © 2016 Sarasin & Partners LLP all rights reserved.

Our commitment to charity investment issecond to none.

We are constantly investing in researchand trustee training to further improveour offering. To find out more call JohnHandford on the number below.

+44 (0) 20 7038 7000www.sarasinandpartners.com

Thank you for attending the BUAFTA 2016 gala. We hope thatyou have had a fantastic and enjoyable evening celebrating ourachievements and hard work over the past year.

A big thank you also to everyone involved in organising and promoting the 2016 BUAFTAs,

who dedicated their time to make this event possible.

To relive memories of the evening and stay in touch with BUAFTAs developments, please

visit our intranet page: https://intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/BUAFTAs. This will be updated

shortly with photos from the 2016 BUAFTAs gala, so see if you can spot yourself in one!

You can also follow us on Twitter @BUAFTAs for more BUAFTAs news and updates,

and don’t miss the next edition of Buzz, which will have a feature on the event!

Once again, congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted and particularly thisyear’s winners.

Thank y ouOu r E n t e r t a i nmen t Spon so r

Thanks to our award sponsors for their support in helping us stage an awards ceremony worthy of our finalists.

and Mr Brendan Casey, Director of Academic Services and College Administration


17/17

1 1 6 2 8

©

U n i v e r

s i t y o f B i r m i n g h a m 2 0 1 6 . P r i n t e d o n a r e c y c

l e d g r a d e p a p e r c o n t a i n i n g 1 0 0 % p o s t - c o n s u m e r w a s t e .

Edgbaston, Birmingham,B15 2TT, United Kingdom

www.birmingham.ac.uk

University of Birmingham BUAFTA Brochure 2016

Documents

Transcript of University of Birmingham BUAFTA Brochure 2016