A senior civil servant has been appointed as the Director of the University of Nottingham’s new Institute for Policy and Engagement to deliver a step change in awareness, perception and policy impact of the University’s world-leading research among influential policymakers and politicians across the globe.

Stephen Meek will be joining the University from the Cabinet Office where he is currently a Director responsible for improving how government policymakers collaborate with universities to ensure that policy and legislation reflects cutting-edge, evidence-based research.

Stephen’s previous roles include Board level positions at both the Departments for Education and Communities and Local Government. His career began at HM Treasury, and has included spells at the Local Government Association and helping Cambridgeshire and Peterborough develop their successful devolution proposals.

A key element of the University’s Research Vision, one of the most concentrated and comprehensive research programmes in the University’s history, the Institute for Policy and Engagement will drive further improvements in the reputation of the University’s research amongst influencers and practitioners in the UK and internationally.

The Institute will provide the University with a hub of expertise in global policy engagement and research impact, as well as coordinating the University’s approach to supporting wider public engagement with research.

At the heart of the Institute will be a cohort of the University’s many exceptional researchers and research communicators, ensuring that the University harnesses the expertise, enthusiasm and advocacy of our academic community in our efforts to improve the global reputation of our research.

Visiting the University to join celebrations for the first anniversary of the Research Vision, Stephen said:

“I am delighted to have been appointed to such an exciting role at a leading Russell Group university. Exceptional research informing government policy and expert academic opinion in our public debate is as essential now in our complicated, uncertain and fast changing world as it has ever been.

“The University of Nottingham is renowned for its exceptional research and I will be bringing my experience in Whitehall and elsewhere to ensure that its research and academics are at the forefront of shaping global policy and thinking.”

Professor Dame Jessica Corner, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange said:

“One year on and our Research Vision is beginning to deliver real impact and transform lives in our community, the UK and across the globe. I am very pleased that Stephen is able to join us at this critical time to ensure that the wealth and variety of Nottingham’s research reaches new and influential audiences to deliver ever greater impact on the world around us.”

Reporting jointly to Professor Dame Jessica Corner and Kerry Law, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Stephen will take up role in September 2018.