Creating opportunities for BAME leaders of the future

UCL is providing opportunities for development, training and leadership experience for black, Asian and minority ethnic staff who wish to progress to senior roles.

A scheme to increase the representation of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) staff among its senior workforce was launched by UCL in August 2020. 

Accelerate to Leadership gives BAME staff working in the university’s professional service roles in faculties, vice-provost offices and divisions, such as HR, Finance, Planning and Estates, the opportunity of a work placement to gain vital experience preparing them for a future leadership role within UCL.  

Participants undertake a three- to 12-month paid internal work placement, during which they acquire the skills, capability and confidence to compete for more senior roles when they arise. 

The scheme also provides support for BAME staff to prepare for promotion or progression opportunities. 

“UCL is committed to increasing the diversity of our senior staff to better reflect our wider staff and student community,” says Donna Dalrymple, UCL’s Director of HR Business Partnering. “We hope the scheme takes steps to encourage, train and develop future BAME leaders in order to help create a diverse internal talent pipeline who can apply with confidence for future senior professional services roles.”