We partnered with Universities UK (UUK) to support their Transformation and Efficiency Taskforce by hosting a series of roundtable discussions, bringing together sector leaders to share experiences and explore systematic approaches to efficiency. 98 participants from institutions across the sector, and across the UK, engaged in discussions.
These sessions focused on structured approaches to cost reduction and efficiency, and optimising and driving best value from estates. Our discussions highlighted the sector’s appetite for partnership and innovation, as well as the importance of learning from each other. This report follows the release of UUK’s Transformation and Efficiency Taskforce: Towards a new era of collaboration which was published on June 2nd 2025.
The sector stands at a pivotal moment. The options under consideration need to be wide-ranging and ambitious. By embracing new opportunities and learning from each other, universities can seek to remain robust, dynamic and able to continue delivering outstanding education and world-leading research, while securing long-term financial sustainability. The work of the taskforce, supported by ongoing sector-wide engagement, will be central to shaping this positive future.
86%
of participants stated transformational change has already begun across their institution.
63%
of participants stated their establishment does not have a good understanding of which activities generate the greatest surplus or profit based on financial data.
66%
of participants stated their institution has already begun rationalising academic or non-academic space.
85%
of participants do not have a comprehensive understanding of their estates at a building level.
Transformation and Efficiency in the Higher Education Sector
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Partner, Education Lead and Government and Health Industries Restructuring Leader, PwC United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)7787 120228
