Sam has a wealth of experience in the higher education sector gained over the last twenty years, most notably having been at the University of Nottingham for the past nine years, serving as Assistant Director of Sport – Participation.
The appointment of Sam comes at a key time for BUCS. With significant funding from Sport England and the announcement of a systemic partnership with them, it will allow Sam to guide BUCS in delivering world-class programmes for both performance and participation.
Sam’s outgoing role at the University of Nottingham involved having strategic oversight on social sport, participation and intramural sport programmes, developing workforce, volunteering and career opportunities, in addition to having responsibility for EDI and disability sport subjects.
Having been Chair of the BUCS Workforce Board for past four years, Sam is already well versed with BUCS, as well as higher education sport, and this experience and knowledge will enable Sam to have an instant impact when she begins her role at the end of October.
Commenting on her new role, Sam states: “I am happy to join BUCS at such an exciting and important time. With a new strategy cycle imminent, the start of a new academic year and competition season, I welcome the challenge to work collaboratively with the membership across a range of themes to bring about positive change for our students, staff and the wider sector. Transparency will be key for me and as a member of the BUCS Executive I hope I can bring my experiences and knowledge to support and drive the organisation forward.”
Vince Mayne, BUCS CEO said: “I can speak for the whole organisation when I say we are delighted to have Sam on board. Sam has a clear passion for using sport and physical activity to improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Her professionalism and experience within the sector will stand us in great stead as we embark on our new strategy, endeavouring to create the best university sport experience for everyone. Sam recognises the importance and value of sport, and we look forward to her guidance and leadership as we enter the 2022-23 season, and beyond.”
