Universities across the country are under mounting pressure, which is leading to redundancies, course closures and workforce change. As these challenges intensify across the sector, outplacement and HR specialist, INTOO UK & Ireland, which is headquartered in the East Midlands, has reported a five-fold uptick in enquiries for its services from higher education, illustrating the importance of getting it right when it comes to times of change.
Managing Director, Owen Morgan is urging universities to prioritise staff support as the sector continues to navigate a perfect storm of regulatory, financial and political pressures. He says how establishments support staff through periods of change has become a major reputational and workforce issue.
Owen commented: “The increase in enquiries isn’t just about a demand for services, it illustrates a wider movement across the university sector. The increase we have experienced suggests universities are putting greater emphasis on how staff are supported through restructuring, as financial pressures intensify.
“Universities are seeing declining international student numbers and rising operational costs and as a result of factors like these, thousands of jobs continue to be cut across the country, highlighting the drastic measures some organisations are having to implement in order to keep doors open. As restructuring becomes more common, it is paramount universities are thinking more carefully about the support offered to both existing and departing employees. This isn’t just about doing the right thing, it’s about supporting morale, reputation, future recruitment and student experience. Focusing on the current situation is important but ensuring the establishment has a positive reputation once the dust has settled is equally crucial.”
In the latest report from the Government’s Education Committee, it is stated that the Government has no clear plan for universities facing insolvency and that protections for students are inadequate. Alongside this, the Office for Students has warned that 45% of higher education providers could run a deficit in the 2025-26 financial year without mitigating action.
Owen added: “The challenges for the university sector aren’t over, which is why we continue to urge establishments to prioritise staff wellbeing for those who remain and those who are departing. If handled badly, restructuring doesn’t only cause ripples across your organisation, it can damage trust and affect employer brand. Poor communication, limited support and rushed processes are some of the most common errors made by employers in the early stages of redundancy, but they can be some of the most detrimental.
“Handled well, career transition support gives people practical steps to rebuild confidence and allow affected staff to move onto new roles quicker. Despite the challenging backdrop to the education sector, it is promising to see an increase in enquiries as employers recognise the value of practical support and guidance during the most challenging times.”
In INTOO’s Future World of Work Report 2026, it was found that of the 1,000 HR leaders and managers who were surveyed, 74% rated externally provided career support as valuable. The main reason cited by both parties was that externally provided career support encouraged honest conversations that employees feel unable to have internally.
Owen continued: “Our findings show an important trend across both managers and HR leaders – the importance of guidance and support during times of change. Naturally, people look for consistency, trust and reliability during difficult times, which means it’s no surprise that employees look for this in their career progression. As major regional employers, the challenges faced by universities are rippling out across society, but as we recognise the shift towards outplacement support by these organisations, we are optimistic those affected can have a more certain career path ahead.”
Part of Gi Group Holding, one the world’s largest and fastest growing HR and recruitment providers, INTOO helps people move forward confidently after redundancy or dismissal, with tailored support and expert guidance.
