A warm welcome to UON’s new Director of IT

University of Northampton (UON) has a familiar face on its senior team with the announcement of Alex Vujcich as the institution’s new, permanent Director of IT.

Before her interim Director of IT role at the University, Alex was Deputy Director of IT here. Before that, Alex was the University’s Head of Cyber Security and Compliance.

On her appointment, Alex says: “It’s wonderful to have been successful with the permanent directorship role. For me, good IT is easy and frictionless for customers, whether staff, students or the external stakeholders we engage with.”

Alex’s tenure has been a busy time for her and her team, with multiple workstreams successfully delivered: “One of the big things we have worked on recently has been our new Data and Digital Strategy, which we officially launched at the Talk with ULT event last month.

“The Strategy isn’t just about platforms and services – as important as it is we keep them working well – but data is a big part of it.

“Something we are also proud of was the launch, in August last year, of our new student records system. This has been a huge project with us working in partnership with many UON teams, external partners and again, we started with the right foundations to allow for that building back better. One of the overarching aims here has been to enhance the staff and student experience and provide a more modern platform to access key student records whilst also continuing to adopt self-service where possible.

“The team is deeply committed to ensuring the University’s IT runs smoothly, always going above and beyond to support the UON community. A great deal of effort goes on behind the scenes to keep the technology that staff and students rely on running smoothly, ensuring uninterrupted work and study. When challenges arise, the team responds swiftly and with determination, working tirelessly to restore services as quickly as possible. This reflects how we have evolved in IT, being responsive and accessible, something I practice myself as my door is always open if members of the team need to discuss anything.”

Now celebrating three and a half years at the University, Alex talks about what she enjoys about working at UON and introduces some forthcoming projects: “For me, it’s all about the people, everything flows from them. There’s a strong sense of authentic leadership here and that our values aren’t just on paper, but they can be seen with the words and actions from ULT and across the University.

“Outside of work, I’m a busy mum to two energetic girls, aged 3 and 1, who keep my wife and I on our toes. We also have a lively 6-year-old cocker spaniel adding to the chaos. I love running – when I can squeeze it in!”

Professor Anne-Marie Kilday, the University’s Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chancellor, says: “A warm welcome to Alex Vujcich with her permanent appointment as Director of IT.

“Alex has much experience in information technology and close knowledge of UON IT needs from her three and a half years here, meaning our data and digital futures are already in dedicated and safe hands.”

Becky Bradshaw, UON’s Deputy Vice Chancellor & Chief Operating Officer, adds: “The University prides itself on being a campus fit for the 21st century. This means IT processes, security and systems are at the very heart of everything we do here.

“I join Anne-Marie, our colleagues in the University’s Leadership Team and beyond in extending Alex warm congratulations as our Director of IT.”