Celebrating a Decade of Excellence: Dixon Walter’s 10-Year Anniversary

A Journey of Expertise and Innovation

Established in 2015, Dixon Walter was founded with a clear vision: to deliver bespoke, high-quality recruitment services tailored to the higher education sector. Building on a foundation of over two decades of recruitment expertise, Mike Dixon and Alan Walter created a consultancy that seamlessly combined deep sector insight with a commitment to personalised service.

From the outset, Dixon Walter set itself apart by understanding the intricate demands of higher education leadership. The firm’s innovative approach, focused on identifying candidates with not only the right experience but also the strategic vision and cultural fit, quickly earned it a reputation for excellence. Over the years, Dixon Walter has received consistent praise from clients and candidates alike for its personal, knowledgeable service and the genuine care and expertise it brings to every assignment.

As the firm has grown, it has carefully welcomed trusted, experienced colleagues into its team, building a family of professionals who share its values and dedication to the sector.

Building Partnerships and Driving Impact

Over the past decade, Dixon Walter has forged lasting partnerships with a wide array of institutions, from small specialist colleges to globally renowned universities. Each engagement has been grounded in trust, discretion, and a shared goal of securing leadership that drives institutional success.

The firm’s portfolio spans a broad spectrum of senior roles, encompassing both academic leadership and professional services across all mission groups. Dixon Walter has also played an active role in advancing diversity and inclusivity in higher education leadership, fostering greater equity at the highest levels of governance.

Adapting to Change

The higher education landscape has undergone significant change over the past decade. From funding pressures and shifting student expectations to digital transformation and global competition, institutional priorities have continually evolved.

In this challenging and often unpredictable environment, Dixon Walter has remained a steadfast partner, offering expert guidance rooted in knowledge, experience, and genuine commitment to the sector. Whether navigating the pressures of an evolving political climate or responding to emerging trends in sustainability, equality, and innovation, the firm’s proactive and informed approach has ensured its clients remain well-equipped for the future.

Reflections on a Decade of Success

“So much has changed in the sector over the last ten years, but one constant has been the need for complete authenticity in all our dealings with both clients and candidates. It is something we are really proud of and look for in the feedback we receive” Mike Dixon

As Dixon Walter celebrates its 10th anniversary, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the firm’s achievements over the past decade. Key highlights include:

• Expanding Influence: Establishing a strong presence across the UK and beyond, while maintaining the boutique feel of a consultancy deeply invested in each client’s success.
• Fostering Community: Building lasting relationships within the higher education sector and contributing to leadership discussions through thought leadership, events, and insights.
• Driving Excellence: Playing a pivotal role in the appointment of leaders who have gone on to achieve significant successes for their institutions.

Looking to the Future

The 10th anniversary is not only a celebration of the past but also a moment to look ahead. Dixon Walter remains dedicated to its mission of helping higher education institutions thrive through exceptional leadership.

As the sector grapples with new challenges—including the rise of artificial intelligence, demographic shifts affecting student numbers, and the urgency of global sustainability goals—Dixon Walter is committed to supporting clients and candidates with the same dedication, expertise, and innovative thinking that have defined its first decade.

“One of the keys to our success in the last ten years has been our ability to adapt our services to reflect the new and varied challenges faced by the sector. Continually asking the question, how do we best add value to a recruitment process; and because of our close relationships with our clients and candidates we are able to understand the real issues that face universities and identify the best senior talent able to navigate through these turbulent times.” Alan Walter

Gratitude and Thanks

Dixon Walter’s success over the past 10 years would not have been possible without the trust and collaboration of its clients, candidates, and colleagues. The firm extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of its journey and looks forward to continuing to serve the higher education community in the years to come.

Here’s to the next decade of transformative leadership and meaningful partnerships!!