The University welcomes Ben Matthews to the role of Director of Global Partnerships and Networks.
Ben Matthews brings his international expertise and experience from his work at Lancaster University to his new role at the University of Glasgow.
Can you tell us a little about your career so far?
I started my career in higher education at Lancaster University Students’ Union, where I led a community project supporting students and staff to volunteer in their local communities. From there, we developed initiatives in computer recycling, digital skills training, crime prevention, business start-up support, and more; many funded by the UK Government, Trusts, and the European Union.
I then became involved in the early phases of Lancaster’s overseas partner campuses in India and Malaysia, focusing on connecting students around the world through their learning and shared interests - from projects addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, support for those wanting to start businesses, to cricket competitions and talent shows.
I later joined the University, ultimately leading the portfolio of global reputation, mobility, and partnerships, including transnational educaton (TNE). Through this work, we built to a position where one third of Lancaster’s student population completed their studies in Germany, Ghana, Malaysia, China, and Indonesia. This was incredibly rewarding, and driven by my passion for working with the university community to forge partnerships and connect communities.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Meeting the people driving forward Glasgow's global partnerships, it’s been exciting to hear what drives them, hearing their plans for the future and discussing how we might work together to sustain their successes.
What attracted you to Glasgow?
It was the people, the place, and the potential - in that order. Through the various sector networks, I heard from and worked a little with the UofG team and always felt it was a community I would enjoy working with, and my early days and weeks have confirmed that. The history and vibrancy of both the campus and the city create an exciting environment—we build on 575 years of achievement in ways that make new possibilities real.
What do you see as the main challenges and opportunities in our global partnerships?
Reading the daily news often feels daunting. The world is changing rapidly and there are so many challenges that we and future generations have to face. But, for me, this is where collaboration matters. As individuals and communities we are more resilient when we come together. Globally leading universities are uniquely positioned to bring hope, light, and solutions - creating interconnections to tackle the toughest of challenges.
What are your interests away from work?
There is always something happening at home, my wife and I have three kids, a dog, and a guinea pig! We love getting away together in our VW camper van, ideally to France. For me, I love running and cycling - I try to sign up for a couple of challenges each year so I have a goal - something to get me out of bed on dark winter mornings!