Kathryn Taylor has worked at Heriot-Watt University (HWU) for almost 13 years and started her career with the University in 2011, as Student Experience Officer, setting up the first Careers Advisory & Alumni Service at Dubai Campus. As well as providing careers advice to students Kathryn gained a wide breadth of knowledge and experience of external engagement in Dubai that included establishing links industry, HWU Alumni, and hosting large scale career fairs for students to connect with companies for internships, graduate jobs, and professional networking.

In 2019, Kathryn was able to specialise her work to her current role as Alumni Engagement Officer where she works with Alumni to help them stay connected to the University as well as working closely with Academic Schools, Professional Service departments, Marketing and Recruitment teams, and Business Development in the University to support a variety of projects that require Alumni engagement, expertise, and insight. Kathryn is also part of the wider Development and Alumni Team based in Edinburgh providing global events and points of interest for Alumni to stay connected globally.

As Chair of the Registry Services Employee Engagement Committee and with  previous experience in workforce development Kathryn is a keen advocate for lifelong learning and supporting others with their personal and professional growth. Kathryn brings that passion, learning and development knowledge, and events experience to volunteer her support to this year’s Middle East Case.

Kathryn is a qualified and experienced adult trainer and assessor, holds an MSc Careers Education, Information and Guidance, in Higher Education (CEIGHE) from Warwick University (UK) and is currently completing an MBA with the University of Birmingham (UK).