The Change Maker Programme

Client: University of Greenwich

London, UK

Change Making for Student Success: The University of Greenwich's Strategic Journey to Educational Excellence.

The University of Greenwich launched the Change Maker programme in 2021 as part of its bold strategic ambition to "Educate without Boundaries." Recognising the value of its diverse community—54% of students from low socio-economic backgrounds, 57% female, and 35% non-UK nationals—the University sought to create an inclusive culture that supports student success through values-led leadership and equity-focused initiatives.

Central to this effort was the Change Maker Programme, a dual-track leadership development initiative designed to foster culture change among senior leaders while equipping 100 new aspiring leaders—many from underrepresented backgrounds—with the tools and confidence to drive institutional impact. The programme emphasised authenticity, human-centred leadership, and used the GC Index to promote a shared language of change.

Annual "Change Maker Ignition" events connected participants with inspiring C-suite leaders and DEI advocates, reinforcing the importance of personal accountability, inclusive leadership, and innovation. The programme was backed by the Vice Chancellor and senior leadership, embedding DEI principles at the highest levels.

Outcomes were significant: 32 participants secured promotions, 39 gained leadership responsibilities, and 4 contributed directly to the University’s early attainment of TEF Gold status in 2024. Others advanced gender equality (Athena Swan), LGBT+ inclusion (Stonewall Gold), and menopause support, with the University becoming the first in England to earn Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

The Change Maker programme demonstrated outstanding ROI at £1,000 per participant and fostered a more inclusive, empowered leadership culture. By centring DEI within its strategic leadership framework, the University of Greenwich has become a national exemplar of equitable transformation in higher education—driving sustainable culture change, career advancement, and student success.