As the Development Manager for the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland, Sara’s remit includes supporting and line managing the elected officers of UHI Orkney and UHI Shetland and the Local Co-Ordinator staff who are based at each Academic Partner. Sara enjoys enabling officers to become impactful leaders and providing a platform for students to have their voices heard across the partnership.
Sara joined the Civil Service after leaving Anderson High School in Lerwick, remaining in predominantly public service roles until joining Highlands and Islands Students’ Association in 2019. At a young age Sara discovered her passion for advocacy and democracy, becoming a Trade Union shop steward and TUC Learner Rep at age 19, progressing to Depute Convener before being elected as Convener for the GMB Union at Plymouth City Council.
Sara chose the vocational qualification route after deciding not to leave Shetland for University, obtaining a Level 3 NVQ in Business Administration and SVQ Level 5 in Management (SCQF 11). Having been inspired by UHI students, Sara took the opportunity offered to students by the University to study without leaving their Highland or Island homes, commencing a BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics in 2022. She currently juggles part-time work, part-time study and full-time parenting and is grateful for the support offered by her colleagues in this endeavour.
Contact us by emailing us at HISA@uhi.ac.uk