Education Insider Europe proudly presents the Top 10 Heads of Admissions in Europe 2026, recognizing leaders who are strengthening student recruitment through strategic planning and effective admissions management. These professionals oversee admissions strategies that align recruitment activities with institutional objectives while supporting accessible and engaging experiences for prospective students. Their leadership helps institutions strengthen enrollment and respond to changing student expectations, enabling universities to build diverse academic communities while supporting long-term institutional success.
Top 10 Head of Admissions in Europe - 2026
Sharon Blaylock View Profile
Head of Admissions, University of Cumbria
Sharon Blaylock serves as Head of Admissions at the University of Cumbria, where she oversees the admissions function supporting applicants across the institution. Her career reflects sustained experience in higher education admissions, with a focus on making entry processes fair, consistent and responsive to changing applicant expectations.
Matt Birkett
Head of Admissions, Lancaster University
Matt Birkett serves as Head of Admissions at Lancaster University, where he leads the admissions function within the university's student recruitment framework. His work centers on delivering fair, transparent and efficient admissions processes while supporting institutional recruitment goals through collaboration, process improvement and effective use of admissions technology.
