University Academy 92 (UA92) is delighted to announce the appointment of Sara Prowse as its new CEO.
Developed by Lancaster University and the Class of 92, in partnership with KPMG, Microsoft and TalkTalk UA92 is based in Manchester and offers students Academic excellence combined with character and personal development.
Sara joined UA92 earlier this summer following a 30-year career in consumer retail where she specialised in building brands that put the consumer at the heart of the business. Sara's career has seen her lead and build iconic names such as Hotter Shoes, Lands End, and ISME at Shop Direct, which has now rebranded to The Very Group.
When asked about her appointment, Sara said: "I am delighted to be taking on the position of CEO at such an innovative, distinctive and inclusive organisation. The collaboration between Lancaster University's academic excellence, global industry giants such as Microsoft, KPMG and Talk Talk, alongside the winning mentality of the Class of '92, make for a very exciting and powerful proposition. I believe there is a big role for UA92 to play, now more than ever, in supporting Greater Manchester to build back better and stronger as we recover from the pandemic. UA92 is uniquely positioned to provide industry with an integrated pipeline of diverse talent. I'm looking forward to working with our students, colleagues and partners as we continue to unlock greatness and transform lives."
Dr Marnie Millard, Chair of UA92 said, "Sara's appointment as CEO affirms UA92's commitment to putting student experience, outcomes, and development at the core of everything we do. Sara's wealth of experience in leading and understanding the consumer journey, coupled with her strong industry experience and background in growing distinctive brands, will further enable UA92 to reach an even broader and diverse audience. We are already seeing the impact the UA92 experience can have on learners, the entrepreneurial flame it ignites and the incredible achievements our students are making. I am confident Sara's leadership will amplify and increase opportunity for everyone that chooses to come to UA92. I look forward to working with Sara and the team as we navigate beyond the grip of the pandemic and play our part in helping build back greater than before."
Gary Neville, Founder of UA92 said: "From the very start, we always saw UA92 as being more than just a degree. Our vision was to create an experience for students that would prepare them for life and the world of work. The appointment of Sara as CEO comes at the perfect time in our journey. As we start to come out the other side of the tunnel that was covid, the impact is clear to see. So many people and businesses across Manchester will be at a crossroads, unemployment will be a challenge and younger people will be most affected. UA92 is perfectly positioned to provide opportunity and reach out to those hard-hit communities. Sara's deep understanding of developing inclusive brands, promoting a consumer led proposition and amplifying the integration of our industry partners will help ensure UA92 becomes a pivotal part of Greater Manchester's post pandemic success story."
Professor Andy Schofield, Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University said: "I am delighted to welcome Sara as CEO of UA92. Lancaster University continues to invest and play a critical role in working with Sara and colleagues at UA92 in the delivery of a high quality and enriching academic offer for all students. In Sara's appointment I am confident that every student's academic journey at UA92 will continue to be of the highest standard, and her impressive track record of success will only enhance the student journey, experience, and outcomes."
