02 July 2026 
Emma Walton-Pond, Communications Officer
UHR welcomed more than 100 senior HR leaders to Birmingham this month for the Senior HR Summit 2026, bringing together colleagues from across the higher education sector for two days of strategic discussion, insight and collaboration.
Despite soaring temperatures and challenging journeys—many involving long, hot train delays—delegates travelled from across the UK, demonstrating the importance and value of coming together at a time of significant change for the sector.
This year’s Summit focused on one of the most pressing questions facing higher education: how do we lead people through unprecedented change while building a sustainable future for our institutions?
Across two days of thought-provoking sessions and open discussion, a clear message emerged: while financial pressures, workforce disruption, digital transformation and policy change continue to reshape higher education, people must remain at the heart of every successful transformation.
Day one explored themes of resilience, human-centred change and strategic leadership. Delegates heard powerful insights on collaboration, financial sustainability, digital capability and the growing role of AI in shaping the future of work. Discussions reinforced the need for institutions to embrace innovation while continuing to tell a compelling story about the value and impact of higher education.
A standout moment from the first day was the UHR TrailBlazers Legacy session, featuring inspiring reflections on leadership, confidence and finding your voice. The session served as a powerful reminder of the exceptional talent emerging across the sector and the importance of nurturing future leaders.
Day two shifted focus towards leadership accountability, organisational culture and systemic change. Sessions explored person-centred approaches to workplace investigations, alongside the shared challenges facing higher education globally, including financial sustainability, regulation, workforce pressures and trust.
One of the most impactful discussions centred on racial inclusion, representation and progression within the HR profession. Delegates were challenged to reflect on the role of people professionals in addressing structural inequalities and driving meaningful, measurable change within their own institutions.
The Summit also highlighted the value of strong partnerships, with UHR’s commercial partners contributing valuable expertise and insight throughout the event. UHR extends particular thanks to Premium Partners People Insight and Shakespeare Martineau for their continued support.
The event also provided an opportunity to recognise and celebrate leadership within the UHR community, with heartfelt thanks extended to Margaret Ayers as she concluded her tenure as UHR Chair after many years of dedicated service in volunteer leadership roles.
Reflecting on the event, one theme stood above all others: the power of community. In a sector facing increasing complexity and rapid change, spaces for honest conversation, shared learning and collective problem-solving have never been more important.
UHR would like to thank everyone who joined us in Birmingham and contributed to such an engaging and insightful Summit. The conversations started at the event will continue as we work together to shape the future of people practice in higher education.
