Join senior university decision‑makers for an exclusive, in‑person forum exploring how Microsoft Cloud technologies – Dynamics, Power Platform, and AI – are reshaping the future of UK Higher Education. This event brings leaders together to collaborate, share challenges, and discuss the next generation of student and staff experiences powered by intelligent, connected services.

What you’ll gain from attending

• A Clear Vision for HE Digital Transformation: Explore the strategic direction of digital transformation across UK Higher Education, underpinned by Microsoft capabilities. Understand how institutions are aligning technology investment with long‑term service strategy.
• Real Transformation Journeys: Hear a real client case study featuring tangible outcomes from a successful university‑wide transformation—covering student experience, operational efficiency, and organisational change.
• Responsible, Ethical AI in Education: Gain practical insights into how AI can be adopted responsibly across the institution, from automating routine administrative tasks, boosting productivity, and enriching staff and student experiences.
• Funding, Business Cases & Strategic Alignment: Learn proven methods for securing internal investment, building compelling business cases, and aligning digital programmes to institutional priorities. Discover how to demonstrate clear ROI and frame value for leadership.
• A Deeper Understanding of the Microsoft Cloud Roadmap: Get a forward look at what’s coming next across Dynamics, Power Platform, and AI. Understand how Microsoft is shaping the future of student experience and administrative services across the sector.

Agenda 

• Arrival & Networking Breakfast
• Welcome & The Future of Digital in UK Higher Education – welcome by Nigel Cottam and then Vanessa Kulta
• Keynote: Responsible AI & Student‑Facing Innovation – by Kyle Hill
• Case Study: Real University Transformation Story & Outcomes – by Paul Gallagher
• Break
• Case Studies – View from the Front line in Higher Education – by Kayleigh Duddy
• Approach to Funding, Strategy & Change Management – by Nigel Cottam
• Panel Q&A + The Future Roadmap for Higher Education – by Nigel Cottam, Kayleigh Duddy, Paul Gallagher and Vanessa Kulta
• Lunch & Networking

Meet the Speakers...

Vanessa Kultu

Business Applications Technical Specialist at Microsoft

Vanessa Kutlu is an AI Business Applications Technical Specialist at Microsoft, supporting UK Higher Education organisations with Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and modern customer experience technologies.

Paul Gallagher

Assistant Director of Applications & Digital Development at Anglia Ruskin University

Paul is an experienced technology leader with a strong record delivering major digital transformation across financial services, pharmaceuticals, and higher education. He has led multi‑million‑pound programmes spanning cyber security, student information systems, HR platforms, and business intelligence, and overseen IT operations across five business units and 300+ revenue‑generating websites. Known as a collaborative, people‑focused leader, Paul has built and developed high‑performing IT teams of over 60 specialists.

Nigel Cottam

Senior Enterprise Account Executive at ANS

Nigel is a Senior Enterprise Account Executive at ANS with extensive experience in public sector business applications and a proven track record of driving impactful transformation. At ANS, he has been a valued team member for over a year collaborating with Public Sector leaders to enhance citizen services, optimize operational agility, and bolster governance—all while mitigating risks and maximizing the value of their Microsoft investments.

Kyle Hill

CTO at ANS

Kyle Hill joined ANS in June 2023 as Technical Services Delivery Director, quickly transforming the Professional Services and Centre of Excellence teams into industry leaders. In 2024, Kyle was promoted to Chief Technology Officer to continue developing and scaling world-class cloud, security, and digital services. Kyle is an expert in complex, multi-technology offerings, making him a sought-after authority and speaker on AI readiness and digital transformation. Additionally, he is recognised by Microsoft for his contributions to the tech community as a Regional Director and Most Valuable Professional (MVP).

Kayleigh Duddy

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Solution Architect & Team Leader at ANS

As a Microsoft Dynamics 365 Solution Architect at ANS, Kayleigh is committed to developing and delivering inclusive, user-centric systems and processes that drive business success and enhance data-driven decision-making.