How Professional Services Teams Are Adapting to Change in Higher Education

Higher education is undergoing rapid and sustained change. From funding pressures and regulatory shifts to digital transformation and evolving student expectations, universities are being asked to do more with less. While much of the attention focuses on academic delivery, it is professional services teams who are often at the centre of adapting to this new reality.

Across HR, finance, student services, IT, estates, and governance, professional services staff are reshaping how universities operate, quietly driving efficiency, resilience, and innovation behind the scenes.

One of the most significant changes has been the shift towards greater agility. Traditional university structures are often complex and hierarchical, but many institutions are now empowering professional services teams to work more flexibly. Short-term projects, cross-department collaboration, and shared services models are becoming increasingly common. Professionals who can work comfortably outside rigid job boundaries are particularly valued in this environment.

Another key trend is the growing reliance on data-informed decision-making. Universities are placing greater emphasis on using data to understand student behaviour, improve retention, manage budgets, and demonstrate value. As a result, professional services roles increasingly require confidence with data, not just producing reports, but interpreting insights and communicating them clearly to senior stakeholders.

Digital transformation also continues to shape professional services work. From student record systems and CRM platforms to finance automation and hybrid working tools, technology is now embedded in almost every function. However, the real challenge is not simply adopting new systems, but ensuring staff are supported to use them effectively. Teams that invest time in digital upskilling and continuous learning are better positioned to adapt as technology evolves.

Alongside these operational changes, there is a renewed focus on people and culture. Universities are recognising that professional services staff play a critical role in shaping the student and staff experience. This has led to increased attention on wellbeing, inclusive working practices, and leadership development within professional services teams. Strong communication, emotional intelligence, and stakeholder management are no longer “nice to have” skills; they are essential.

For professionals working in higher education, this period of change presents both challenges and opportunities. Those who are proactive, open to learning, and willing to engage with change are finding new pathways for progression and influence. Professional services is no longer simply about supporting the institution; it is about actively shaping its future.

Change is happening in Higher Education, are you ready to be part of it? Whether you’re looking to grow your career in professional services or your university needs the right talent to drive innovation, Burman Recruitment can help you make it happen.

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