Adapting to a changing and challenging environment is key for most ombuds, charities and organisations in the higher education sector at the moment. For the OIA this is certainly the case. We are in a crucial period of refresh and renewal following the unprecedented focus on our role during the pandemic. We have emerged with a growing membership, reviewed governance, an increased volume of work and a somewhat bigger team. We are acutely conscious of the difficult financial climate for students and providers alike and the need not to pass on cost to providers unless necessary. We have strictly limited subscriptions increases this year whilst managing to replace some important operating systems that had been in place almost since the organisation started and were becoming obsolete. We will need to continue to adapt in the coming months and years to effectively take account of significant changes in the landscape including planning for our new role across the tertiary sector in Wales and the Office for Students’ proposed new role around free speech complaints in England.
And of course an important part of the next stage of our journey will be welcoming Helen as Independent Adjudicator and then a new Chair later in the year. They will be standing on the shoulders of giants. It has been a pleasure and privilege to work with Felicity jointly leading the OIA over the last five years. She has been an inspirational presence in the organisation throughout the first two decades of our operation and absolutely central to the development of a respected, forward-focused and independent ombuds organisation. Together we have benefited hugely from Suzi’s wisdom and support throughout her term of office. I am looking forward to working alongside Helen to together lead our great team at the OIA, as we continue to undertake and develop our essential role at this challenging and important time for students and the higher education sector.
