Turn experience into impact with our External Secondment Policy
29 Oct 2026
Thinking about an external secondment? Our new University-wide framework brings clarity and consistency to the process.
Manchester 2035 sets out our ambition to be a powerhouse of innovation, with our Innovation Delivery Plan turning that ambition into action by making it easier to collaborate, strengthen external partnerships and create greater impact.
Our new External Secondment Policy, the University's first University-wide framework for external secondments, helping put that ambition into practice. It provides a clear and consistent approach to managing external secondments, whether that's with a University of Manchester spin-out company or an external organisation, making it easier for colleagues to gain experience, share expertise and strengthen external partnerships.
External secondments play an important role in knowledge exchange, giving colleagues opportunities to build new connections, gain fresh perspectives and develop skills in different environments. They can also bring new insights and experience back to the University, helping us build a more connected culture of innovation and create greater impact beyond our campus.
Professor Aline Miller, Associate Vice President for the Innovation Portfolio and Chief Scientific Officer, Unit M, said: ‘Taking time away from my academic role to join and help build my company was absolutely critical. It gave me the opportunity to learn at pace, translate my research into real-world impact and grow enormously, both professionally and personally. It was also challenging, rewarding and great fun. I had to navigate that journey without a clear framework. This policy will make it much easier for colleagues in the future, providing greater confidence and clarity from the outset.’
Considering an external secondment?
Whether you are considering an external secondment or supporting a member of your team who is, the new policy and guidance will help you understand, what to consider and how to navigate the application process.
External secondments are open to all colleagues and can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, in the UK or overseas. Colleagues should begin by discussing a potential secondment with their line manager and Head of Department or Division, ideally at least six months before the proposed start date.
- Access our External Secondment Policy to understand the framework, eligibility requirements and responsibilities involved;
- Explore our External Secondment Guidance which provides practical information to help colleagues and managers understand the steps involved in proposing and arranging a secondment.
Ele Morrissey, Executive Director of People
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