Oxford University Consulting: A Valuable Resource
17th December 2010
Oxford University Consulting, a division within Oxford University Innovation Ltd., co-ordinates and supports access by external organisations to University academics and researchers for consulting assignments.
Regular receptions are held for university staff registered for consultancy, addressing topics such as self-employment, tax and legal contracts, and offering networking opportunities with fellow consulting academics and Isis staff.
The latest event, at the Saïd Business School on 29th November, was addressed by Dr Steve New, Lecturer of Operations Management at the Saïd Business School.
Dr New highlighted some of the advantages of academic consultancy for both the client and the consultant, supported by examples from his own experience of consultancy arranged through OUC.
• Consultancy is not the main role of academics, who are more likely to be primarily concerned with research or teaching. Academic consultants therefore have the security and freedom to turn down work which is not of interest and can choose the consultancy they take on, thereby assuring clients of their commitment and engagement with the task.
• Consultancy from academics with a standing and authority in their field of expertise is sought for its own merits, whereas management consultants may sometimes be used to present difficult decisions and to be a lightning rod for subsequent criticism.
• Academics are passionate about their field of expertise and will give objective advice, with academic integrity rather than commercial gain their principal consideration.
• Benefits to the academic will often be wider than simply a source of income – the consultancy can lead to research or insights which are valuable in the academic field.
• Academic consultancy can be a tool for making an impact through Knowledge Exchange.
Oxford University Consulting welcomes enquiries from organisations seeking the support of experts in any field from the University, and from academics and researchers who wish to offer their services in this way.
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