Welcome back to all our Kent Business School (KBS) students! We thought this would be a fantastic opportunity to introduce you to your KBS Dean Vicky Knight. Take a look at the blog below to find out more about Vicky and their role at Kent.
A New Chapter for Kent Business School
I joined the University of Kent in 2025 and took up the role of Dean of Kent Business School in October of that year. It is a real privilege to lead the School at such an exciting moment. The University is celebrating its 60th anniversary and we are also looking ahead to Kent Business School’s 40th anniversary in 2028. I have worked in higher education for almost fifteen years, across teaching, programme management and senior leadership roles. Throughout my career, I have particularly enjoyed working with international students and colleagues, and I am energised by diverse, cross-cultural academic environments. I studied Anthropology at University College London and, before moving into higher education leadership, I worked in the international non-profit sector. One of my toughest career challenges was working across West Africa supporting refugees to prepare for permanent resettlement to the US. My career in international humanitarian work continues to shape my values, my perspective and my commitment to education with real-world impact.
Building on success
Kent Business School has an outstanding track record of success. Holding Triple Crown accreditation places us among a small, elite group of business schools worldwide and reflects the rigorous standards we uphold across teaching, research and professional engagement. This global recognition matters deeply, not only because it attracts exceptional students and staff from around the world, but because it signals the quality, relevance and credibility of a Kent business education to employers internationally. We are also proud to be a dual-intensive Business School, delivering excellence in both education and research. Our research advances knowledge, informs practice and addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing organisations and societies today.
“Our Triple Crown status is not just a mark of quality. It is a responsibility to lead.”
Preparing students for a changing world
At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to our students. Our approach will develop responsible, confident graduates with the knowledge, skills and mindset they need to thrive in a dynamic, uncertain and globally connected world. Across the School, all of our academics and professional staff are committed to ensuring that every student benefits from inspirational teaching and outstanding learning opportunities. This means continuously enhancing our curriculum, strengthening our links with industry and ensuring employability and global engagement are embedded throughout the student journey.
“Our goal is simple: to ensure our graduates leave Kent ready to lead, adapt and succeed.”
Creating an exceptional student experience
The best student experience goes beyond lectures and seminars. This year, I am working closely with colleagues across the University to expand extra-curricular opportunities and to make better use of our home in the Sibson Building as a vibrant, inclusive space for collaboration and connection. Students can already get involved in many ways. These include acting as Student Ambassadors or Representatives, and working with peers through initiatives such as the Aspire Business Start-up Journey or the AI Accelerator. I want to build on this momentum by creating even more opportunities for students to meet, share ideas and feel a genuine sense of belonging within our community.
“Belonging is fundamental to success, academically, professionally and personally.”
Looking ahead with confidence
For many students, setting out on a career journey today can feel daunting. That is why it is so important to take full advantage of the support, opportunities and networks available at Kent Business School. This year we are launching our new global Professional Practice and Placement pathways which offer fantastic new employability opportunities for our postgraduate students. By working together, students, staff, alumni and partners can be confident that our graduates leave with a real head start. Kent Business School is a place where ambition is supported, talent is nurtured and futures are shaped. I am excited to lead the School into its next chapter and to work with our community to ensure we remain career-ready, future-focused and globally engaged.