A new report published by Advance HE captures insights from the creation of City St George’s, University of London, offering practical guidance to higher education leaders navigating major institutional change
By Chris Lines (PR & Communications Manager), Published
Advance HE has released Insights from the City St George’s merger, a detailed report examining the creation of City St George’s, University of London. Developed in collaboration with City St George’s, the report provides independent analysis and recommendations for universities considering or undertaking similar mergers.
Drawing on interviews with senior leaders, governors and staff from across the legacy institutions, the publication sets out key opportunities for strategic transformation. The evidence-based guidance aims to support universities in navigating the complexities of large-scale change, with three critical areas highlighted as essential to success.
First, institutions are encouraged to clarify strategic options early by conducting disciplined, evidence-based appraisal of all strategic alternatives before committing to merger. This includes scenario planning, mission alignment and transparent articulation of the chosen path.
Second, the report stresses the importance of due diligence and assurance. Moving beyond basic legal and financial compliance, successful mergers require careful attention to regulatory alignment, cultural compatibility and operational readiness. Advance HE recommends setting clear expectations, adopting independent quality assurance, and recognising due diligence as both risk management and a strategic enabler.
Finally, the report highlights the need to enable unified leadership and decision-making. Appointing designated senior leadership teams early, through transparent processes, can establish shared authority structures and avoid leadership ambiguity that can undermine confidence and progress.
Professor Elisabeth Hill, Deputy Director and Provost of City St George’s, University of London, who was the strategic lead for the merger, said:
Report author, Kim Ansell, Senior Consultant, Governance and Strategic Transformation at Advance HE, added:
"Mergers are inherently complex, and like many major strategic initiatives, they require careful navigation across leadership, governance and management. This report explores a range of key themes, each highlighting the importance of balance in decision making. For example, where do you sit on the spectrum between transparency and confidentiality in communications, speed and precision in execution, or vision and operational realities?
Every institution operates within its unique context, and we hope this report supports leaders and decision-makers in reflecting on the implications of their chosen approach."
The publication marks the first in a series of resources Advance HE is producing to support institutions through large-scale transformation. Two further merger reports and a practical roadmap will follow in the coming months.
About Advance HE
Advance HE is a member-led charity of and for the sector that works with partners across the globe to improve higher education for staff, students and society. Their three strategic goals support the priorities of their members and of the higher education sector: 1) Enhance confidence and trust in HE; 2) Address systemic inequalities and advance education to meet the evolving needs of students and society; and 3) Support the work of their members and the HE sector.
Read the full report:
Insights from the City St George's, University of London merger
