The IC Global Café: The importance of reputation for universities – and who’s getting it right?

Join this interactive IC Café where we’ll explore what ‘reputation’ truly means in the higher education sector. We’ll discuss the key components for addressing and assessing institutional reputation. We’ll also suggest universities that are standing out as interesting examples of effective reputation intention and management. Come ready with your questions and thoughts on what it takes to build a lasting reputation.

EXPERT SPEAKERS

• Santiago Fernández-Gubieda, Director, Centro de Gobierno y Reputación de Universidades, Universidad de Navarra

Santiago Fernández-Gubieda Lacalle currently works at the University of Navarra, Spain. He is Chief Reputation Officer and the Executive Director of the Centre for University Governance and Reputation, dedicated to training, research and consultancy in university governance and reputation projects. Santiago is a member of the World 100 Reputation Network Committee, a professional association that promotes training, research and best practices in university reputation. He is also a member of the European Council for Advancement and Support Education (CASE). He is also part of the academic committee and organiser of the University of Navarra’s reputation and strategic management courses for higher education leaders. Santiago has a Doctorate cum laude in Communication from the University of Navarra, with a thesis entitled “Conceptual framework of reputation. Implications for university management” and is author of the book “A memorable experience. How to cultivate the reputation of universities” (Eunsa, 2023). The book is published in Spanish (2023) and in English (2025, in the coming weeks).

• Justin Shaw, Chief Higher Education Consultant and Managing Director, Communications Management, and an IC Global Fellow.

Justin Shaw is a specialist in communications, reputation, engagement and influence for the higher education sector. He has 30 years’ experience of working with universities. Following an initial career in journalism, Justin worked as the Communications, Media and PR Executive for the University of Hertfordshire. He then went on to set up an Education Practice within Communications Management, a communications consultancy. During his time as a consultant, he has advised and worked with more than 200 higher education clients – universities, specialist colleges, business schools, government agencies, charities and commercial partners. He has been awarded a Fellowship of the CIPR. Justin is also an IC Global Fellow.