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UEL appoints Director of Student Life

Thursday 19 April 2012

Gareth Smith

The University of East London has appointed Gareth Smith as its Director of Student Life.

Gareth, who is currently the Head of Podium - The Further and Higher Education Unit for London 2012 – will take up the newly created position later this summer. Gareth’s main responsibilities will include management of the teams in Student Services as well as leading on corporate initiatives to improve the quality of student life on campus and impact on the student experience.

During his five years at Podium, Gareth has forged strong links with universities and colleges regarding all aspects of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and their legacy – including volunteering, education, sport, research, employment and skills development.

Speaking of his appointment, Gareth said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role of Director of Student Life and joining UEL at such an exciting time.  Having worked closely with the University over the past five years, I am looking forward to continuing to do so with both staff and students to further enhance the quality of the student experience.” 

A graduate of the University of Leeds, Gareth was elected as the Leeds University Union “Education Officer” and has also served as a member of the National Union of Students (NUS) National Executive, and as the “National Chair” of Labour Students.  He has also previously worked for the late Senator Edward Kennedy and Gareth Thomas, who is MP for Harrow West.

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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