Our Leadership Team
With over 100 years combined experience in international higher education, we are committed to student learning and forward progression.
Dr Steven Herron
Co-founder, CEO & PrincipalSteven co-founded UKAHAL and leads the College as CEO and Principal. With over 20 years in international education, he has held senior academic and leadership roles at INTO University Partnerships, QA Higher Education and Oxford International Education Group, driving academic standards across pathway programmes worldwide.
Stephen Grinsell
Head of Academic ProgrammesStephen leads the academic development, delivery and quality of UKAHAL's programmes. He has worked in higher education since 2004, in roles such as Programme Director and Director of Studies, and is an Advance HE approved External Examiner having worked with several universities both in the UK and overseas.
Sam Jones
Head of Global Recruitment, Partnerships and Business DevelopmentSam brings over three decades of experience in international student recruitment and market development. He has successfully built regional teams and agent networks across key emerging markets, with particular expertise in Eurasia, strengthening UKAHAL's global partnerships and supporting its international growth.
Leisa is a MAAT-qualified finance professional with experience in finance and accountancy since 2014, spanning in-house finance leadership and Finance Director-level advisory roles. She oversees UKAHAL's financial oversight, planning and reporting, ensuring strong governance and that the College's resources are used effectively.
Head of FinanceLeisa Brett
Learning Designer & Educational Technology Specialist Simon FitzPatrick
Simon has over 30 years' experience creating engaging, effective online learning across higher education, professional training, healthcare and defence. He has worked with institutions including Oxford, Cambridge and Newcastle, and holds an MA in Educational Technology from the University of Leicester.