Take a break with Simon Robertshaw

Hi there! What is your name and role at Ravensbourne?

Hello, my name is Simon Robertshaw and I am your Deputy Vice Chancellor.

I have responsibility for developing and implementing Ravensbourne University London’s academic vision and mission and providing leadership and direction to all the university’s academic services, including research and knowledge exchange.

After two years here at Rave, I feel we are moving in the right direction in achieving great success and recognition in the sector, and we continue to build on our amazing relationship with industry.

I play a pivotal role in helping the Vice Chancellor in harnessing the university’s potential and lead our academic staff to achieve the next stage of achievement and growth.

It’s time for a coffee break! What’s your go-to drink or snack?

You will usually find me grabbing an americano in Rave 1.

What’s the best part of the role?

Sounds cheesy, but the best part of my role is working with the staff at Ravensbourne. A specialist university is by far the best place to be in higher education. Rave’s unique qualities and portfolio sets it apart in the market. I enjoy the growth agenda at Ravensbourne. We have so much opportunity, so much to be proud of.

Any exciting projects on the horizon?

The CEET (Centre for Excellence in Emerging Technology) has brought about new investment into Rave. Most of the new computing on the ninth floor and the new space on the fourth floor came through a successful application to the OfS (Office for Students).

Our growth has been and will be significant. The real challenge here is quality and making sure we have appropriate resources in place. Adapting ourselves to the fast-paced changes we are seeing in industry and the needs of our students is crucial to our success.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Probably getting into the Royal College of Art.

Or my first professorship appointment.

What is something that people may not know about you?

From the age of 14 I became very passionate about Bruce Lee movies. This eventually led to me competing as a kickboxer at a national level. The key decision was whether to continue or follow my passion for art and technology. Obviously, an academic career won this competition.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

Follow your passion.

I can’t stop listening to… 80s indie music.

My current favourite piece of clothing/accessory is… shoes.

My favourite thing to do in London is… visit galleries.

I recently got into… live gigs.