The University of Manchester has appointed Eleanor Morrissey as its new Executive Director for People and Organisational Development following national campaign led by Dixon Walter
Posted 29th July 2024
University welcomes new Executive Director of People and Organisational Development.
Good luck to Eleanor from all of us at Dixon Walter and thanks again to Manchester, always a pleasure working with the team.

Eleanor is a leading human resources professional with experience of successful leadership over 28 years. This has included being Global HR Director at Genus Plc – a FTSE 250 biotech company, the Cooperative and the Aspire Group – a commercial business that provides housing, training, and neighbourhood and business services.
Throughout her career she has had a strong focus on data and technology, leading numerous initiatives, leading to more efficient working patterns for staff and smoother processes for people across the organisations.
As well as these roles, Eleanor has also been the Chair of The Gingerbread Centre – a homelessness charity supporting families across Staffordshire – where she worked to improve governance and developed a new strategy.
She is also currently a member of the Board of Governors at Staffordshire University.
Eleanor holds an MA in Strategic Human Resources Management and has been a fellow of the CIPD for over 15 years.
Eleanor enjoys keeping fit, walking her two Cockerpoo dogs and spending time with friends and family.
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“I am really excited to be joining The University of Manchester, it’s an institution that places a great deal of emphasis on its people and the difference they make around the world, and that fits extremely well with my own beliefs.”
Eleanor Morrissey
Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, Patrick Hackett, said: “Eleanor is a highly experienced leader who has an outstanding track record in complex and diverse organisations.
“She is committed to our University’s values and has a strong emphasis on improving systems and services for everyone. I am very much looking forward to her joining.
“I would like to also thank Andrew Mullen for leading the Directorate over the last few months on an interim basis.”
Professor Duncan Ivison, who will take up the position of President and Vice-Chancellor from 1 August, said: “Our people are integral to the University’s future, and I am looking forward to welcoming Eleanor to the University’s Senior Leadership Team.”
Eleanor will officially join the University on 1 September and will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team and Professional Services Leadership Team.
Posted by Sarah Walker

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