CEAC Spotlight Series One
Looking for the rest of the CEAC Spotlight Series? Find them here.
Strategy, Measurement & Impact
Growing reputation and revenue: strategy and tactics
10:30 – 11:30 - Maximising Impact: Strategic Insights to Elevate Academic Engagement and
Global Reputation Through Smarter Campaigns
Universities face increasing pressure to stand out and strengthen their academic reputation on the global stage, including through league table performance. This campfire session will explore practical strategies for designing campaigns that drive engagement with academic audiences and elevate institutional reputation. Participants will share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange insights from successful multi-channel campaigns, focusing on how data-driven planning, creative storytelling, and cross-team collaboration can deliver measurable impact.
Tomas Badger, Marketing Manager, University of Birmingham
12:30 – 13:30 - ROI: In For a Penny, in for a Pound…Or Are You?
Does ROI really show success? Your Director of Finance or External Advisory Board might be fixated on Return on Investment, but is it the true measure of your office's success? In a time of financial strain, justifying your work has become more critical than ever. Fundraising often requires a long-term approach how does that align with institutions needing immediate results? Join us for three perspectives from diverse institutions and office sizes, sharing real experiences navigating internal and external ROI discussions and the complex connection between fundraising success, and impact and ROI.
Gordon Cox, Director, Academic & Education, Philanthropy Company
Robin Leonard, Director of Development, Birmingham City University
Francesca Hewitt, Senior Campaign Advisor, Courtauld Institute of Art
14:00 – 15:00 - Brand Resilience & the Trust Dividend: Building Future-Proof Reputation Through Credibility, Culture & Insight
In an era of volatility and declining public trust, resilient brands in higher education are those that combine credibility, culture, and insight to create a sustainable “trust dividend.” This practical, hands-on workshop will help participants diagnose their institution’s current brand resilience, identify risks and quick wins, and explore how lived values and data-informed decision-making can strengthen long-term reputation. Through interactive tools and peer discussion, delegates will leave with a clear framework and actionable steps to build credibility, align culture, and embed insight into their brand strategy.
Alicia O'Grady, Executive Divisional Director of External Engagement and Global, University of Exeter