Professor Helen O’Sullivan has been appointed as Pro Vice-Chancellor of Education at Keele University.

Professor O’Sullivan started her new role in January and joins Keele from the University of Liverpool, where she was Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Online Learning) and Professor of Medical Education.

In 2006 Professor O’Sullivan was appointed Director of Liverpool University’s HEFCE-funded Centre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, within the Faculty of Medicine. The work of the Centre helped to shape how medical professionalism is taught across medical schools in the UK and internationally, and during this time Helen set up the UK Council for Teachers of Professionalism. Her research focuses on the role of emotional intelligence in developing professionalism and leadership in doctors.

In 2010 she was appointed as Director of the Centre for Excellence in Evidence-Based Learning and Teaching, and in 2014 she became the University’s Academic Lead for Online Learning, becoming Associate PVC for Online Learning in 2015.

Previously, Professor O’Sullivan was Dean of Sciences and Social Sciences at Liverpool Hope University, from 2003-2006. Her current external activities include membership of Universities UK International’s HE Global Advisory Board and of Jisc’s Senior Technology Enhanced Learning Steering Group.

Professor O’Sullivan commented: “I think Keele is a really interesting place that’s doing innovative and different things. The size of Keele means you can get to know everyone and help make a real difference, and there’s a sense of community and friendliness here. I already feel like I’m part of a team and everyone has our students and the University’s best interests at heart.

“I am passionate about how higher education can change people’s lives and how we can provide that opportunity for as many students as possible. I’m looking forward to helping Keele push forward and differentiate on what we offer our students, and working on employability opportunities and civic volunteer engagements, so our students can learn a wide range of skills and thrive in a complex world.”