University of Northampton welcomes new Human Resources Director

The University welcomed a new addition to its ‘top table’ this week, who brings years of experience and insight into people, policy and institutional priorities.

Andrew Kennedy is the University’s new Director of Human Resources and has worked in HR for 22 years. He was previously Head of Human Resources and Volunteering at English Heritage.

Before that, his HR experience included Asthma UK (his first “full HR role”) and social housing for Metropolitan Thames Valley.

On Monday this week, Andrew embarked on his latest professional journey in an entirely new sector, leading a team of 35 people that is integral to the efficient functioning of the organisation.

Settling in has been plain sailing, as he explains: “Thank you to everyone at the University who has already made me feel so welcome. I have been astounded by how welcoming everyone has been and how keen they are to make sure my pathway into an entirely new sector to me has been as smooth as possible.”

“UON’s outlook and values match my own and were key drivers for me applying to work here. “I feel privileged to work for an organisation that does so much social good, both locally and nationally.

“Empowering is a word I think of when describing my new role at the University. Not just about empowering me, but about empowering others who work at the University. I want to work for an organisation that makes a difference to the landscape of the county.”

Outside of work, Andrew lives in Cambridgeshire and is a busy family man and sports fan. His wife is a hospital doctor, and he has two children aged 9 and 12.

As well as singing in his local choir, Andrew also referees for a local footie team (he used to referee in semi-professional football). His home team is Glasgow Partick Thistle, which he fondly refers to as “the only Glasgow team.”

UON Vice Chancellor Professor Anne-Marie Kilday says: “From myself and other members of the University Senior Leadership team, we welcome to our new Human Resources Director. Andrew brings to the University years of unique experience that will directly inform much of what all of us do at UON.

“I won’t comment on his footballing team preference (being an ardent supporter of Celtic FC and Oxford United), but I am 100% confident in Andrew’s abilities to take forward our HR priorities.”

Becky Bradshaw, Deputy Vice Chancellor & Chief Operating Officer, adds: “Human Resources connects everything we do at the University, so by extension, Andrew’s leadership will also impact our students, graduates, research, stakeholders and social impact.

“I’d also like to pay huge thanks to the Human Resources Team. The past few months have been an exceptionally busy period as they supported the delivery of changes necessary to ensure the financial stability of future viability of our University. They have delivered an excellent service during a challenging time.”