Building our Portsmouth community

Mel Maloney, centre, is keen to grow two-way communication between staff and the University’s management

With 1,769 of our professional support staff employed from within the local area, we’re delighted to be congratulating Mel Maloney, Market Research Officer and resident of the Portsmouth region, as Co-Chair of the Professional Support Staff Association.

The association represents the views and champions the wellbeing of all staff, and facilitates two-way communication between staff and the University’s management structure.

Mel Maloney said: “The idea of stepping up and taking on the Co-Chairship of such an important committee was quite terrifying. However, I am very keen that we maintain and grow the two-way communication between staff and the University’s management.

“I am passionate about both the University and our local community, which are so intertwined. I would like to see our staff community more accurately reflect the diversity that we have in the local community, including those who may not have had the opportunity to attend University.”

Mel joins Yvonne Howard (Interim Director of Race and Equality) as Co-Chair, who said: “I hope to be able to work closely with Mel to build upon the supportive community that already exists within the University, and make sure we champion the wellbeing of all staff.”

Mel and Yvonne replace Becky Miles, whose family has had a long relationship with Portsmouth and the University (with her grandfather studying here in the 1930s), who has now been elected to the role of Professional Service Staff Governor on our Board of Governors.

To find out more about working at the University and the list of jobs available, visit and bookmark our vacancies page for all the latest positions www.port.ac.uk/vacancies

The future of money

In a volatile world that’s constantly changing in unpredictable ways, Julian Sawyer, co-founder of Starling Bank and former CEO of Bitstamp, the world's oldest crypto-exchange, gave a fascinating insight into cryptocurrencies and the future of money at the University last month.

In his thought-provoking talk, Julian discussed whether cryptocurrencies promise revolution and are these and other FinTech aligned with traditional financial services – or in opposition? He looked at whether their interrelationships will be defined by productive convergence or aggressive competition?

Julian is a BA (Hons) Business Studies graduate and he also shared key lessons he learnt from his time studying at the University of Portsmouth, through to the present day. He said: “Completing my Business Studies degree at Portsmouth, together with my placement year set me up for success – not only in terms of formal academia but to continue to be inquisitive – asking questions and learning has been central to my career.”

The event was part of the Business Beyond the Classroom webinar series, which provides an exclusive chance to hear stories of business success, take home top tips, and gain access to inside knowledge of business innovation.

Find out about upcoming talks and listen to previous talks at: https://www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/webinars/business-beyond-the-classroom-series

Take your business to the next level

We know that SMEs are under significant pressure due to the current cost of living crisis, but we also appreciate the importance of training and access to entrepreneurs and industry experts.

That’s why the UK Government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and the University are offering to completely cover the cost of the £7,500 ‘Help to Grow: Management Course’.

The course runs over 12 weeks and includes online and face-to-face sessions, 1 to 1 mentoring and peer networking. With just one session a week, it is designed to fit around existing work and personal commitments. You will finish the course ready to lead on the delivery of increased profitability, innovation and growth.

Find out more by emailing the team: [email protected]