The Higher Education Strategic Planners Association (HESPA) is the representative body for those working in strategy and planning roles in UK higher education. HESPA’s work can be divided into three main strands:
Representing members, both inside and outside of the sector, and presenting a strong unified voice where possible, is a key part of HESPA’s work. HESPA lobbies agencies, sector bodies, government and other policymakers for improvements to be made to benefit its members, and the sector overall. It is involved in sector-wide discussion and debate and strives to keep its members well informed.
Being a central source of learning and development for members is one of HESPA’s main activities. HESPA offers a busy annual training programme, covering a diverse range of topics in line with its members road array of remits and responsibilities. HESPA training is open to all roles and levels and, where appropriate, colleagues from other functions are encouraged to attend, recognising the need for a coordinated and collaborative approach between different departments at member institutions.
HESPA offers a unique platform for members to connect and share challenges and opportunities. A number of special interest groups exist to advance strategy and planning work in the sector and HESPA also offers private discussion boards for members to communicate discreetly with one another in a safe space. HESPA events and other activities also heavily promote networking and community-building.
Open to sector membership organisations, sector bodies, approved individuals
Open to conference sponsors, supplier companies, consultancy firms
