Patrick Johnson

I became Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Manchester in 2007.   I manage a team that provides advice, support and guidance to senior managers, staff and students across the University. The role also involves the development of diversity and inclusion strategies, policies and practices at the University.

I am currently a member of several national and local committees where diversity and inclusion are important.  These include:

• Trustee, Chatsworth Multi-Academy Trust - a specialist school and organisation for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities;
• Equality and Diversity Advisory Panel, Research Excellence Framework 2021 – Research England;
• Diversity and Inclusion Steering Group, Wellcome Trust – an independent global charitable foundation;
• Board member, Contact Theatre – a leading national theatre and arts venue especially for young people aged 13-30.

I also have over 16 years’ experience in the field of careers information, advice and guidance. Prior to my current role, I worked at the University’s Careers Service as Head of Pre-entry and Diversity. This role involved working with major graduate employers to develop ‘Positive Action’ initiatives such as mentoring and internships targeted at disabled and BAME students, to help increase their employability.

My hope is that as a Commission we will continually challenge the sector on how well they are supporting disabled students, into, through and beyond higher education. I will take my responsibility as a Commissioner seriously, with a key aim of seeking to achieve more positive outcomes for disabled students.