Professor Grogan joins Sheffield Hallam from Loughborough University where he is currently Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student Experience, overseeing academic quality and standards as well as wider student experience. In that role he has also overseen areas of Loughborough’s enterprise and innovation ecosystem, bringing research together with business incubation and funding networks.
Prior to his role at Loughborough, Prof Grogan had an extensive career at Salford University, where he spent ten years in senior academic leadership roles.
A respected leader in the sector, Prof Grogan has exceptional experience of working with industry, government and regional partners to demonstrate the role of universities as anchor institutions and their contribution to growth.
Commenting on his appointment, Professor Sam Grogan, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Sheffield Hallam University as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and can’t wait to get started. What drew me to Hallam is its clear commitment to creating civic prosperity that goes beyond economic growth alone. The University understands that successful place-making is about improving wellbeing, strengthening communities and creating social value alongside economic opportunity.
“Sheffield Hallam already has strong foundations in research, innovation, enterprise and entrepreneurship, and I am looking forward to helping expand that impact further. I am particularly passionate about supporting innovation among both staff and students, creating pathways that help ideas move from research and projects through incubation and development to successful spinouts and new ventures.
Profound privilege
“Above all, I have been struck by the pride people feel in being part of Sheffield Hallam. It reflects a culture where people care deeply about what they do and how they do it. That sense of mattering – to our students, our communities and each other – is what makes Sheffield Hallam such a special place, and I am excited to be part of its future. To be able to make a difference as part of an institution so embedded in the city that my family and I call home will be a profound privilege.”
Professor Liz Mossop, Sheffield Hallam University Vice-Chancellor, said: “Sam brings a wealth of experience from across the higher education sector, with an outstanding track record of delivering excellence in education, enhancing the student experience, and building strong partnerships with industry, government and regional stakeholders.
“At Sheffield Hallam, we are ambitious for our future and for the communities we serve. Sam’s values, expertise and commitment to the transformative power of higher education make him an excellent fit for our university. I am confident he will make a significant contribution as we continue to deliver on our mission to create opportunities, transform lives and support inclusive growth across our region.
“I am looking forward to welcoming Sam to Sheffield Hallam in September and working closely with him as we build on our strengths and shape the next chapter of the University’s success.”
Prof Grogan will take up the role at the start of the new academic year, following the retirement of the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Shepherd in the summer.
