Cat Davies Email & Phone Number

I bring 16 years experience in social scientific research, and education policy and practice in both early years and higher education, together with extensive professional networks – from grassroots to C-suite. Seeking opportunities to support the Government's Opportunity Mission.An expert in early education practice and policy as Professor of Language Development, focusing on the impact of socioeconomic background on children’s development and post-pandemic educational recovery.High-profile research-to-practice / policy impact through advisory roles to local, national, and international government, including the European Commission, the Treasury and No. 10, Public Accounts Committee Inquiry, UK Covid-19 Inquiry, Department for Education, Leeds City Council.Accomplished leader in research and innovation as academic Dean for Research Culture at the University of Leeds, influencing a community over 3500 academic staff to produce excellent research through inclusive, equitable, open, and supportive practices. I developed the University of Leeds’ Strategic Plan for Research Culture 2023-2028 through consultation, financial investment, and robust monitoring.Influential board member with expertise in organisational change, strategic planning, policy and strategy setting and implementation, responsible research, people development, and corporate governance. Internal memberships include University Senate; Institutional Research and Innovation Board; Biomedical Research Centre at Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee; Research Culture Steering Group; REF Steering Group; Advisory Group on Preventing Unacceptable Behaviour. External memberships include Leeds City Council’s multi-agency Communication and Language Task Group; advisory board member for research culture projects at the Universities of Cambridge and Cardiff.External advocacy via membership of national and regional groups, e.g., N8 Research Culture and Environment committee, and advisor to the Wellcome Trust 2024-25.Leader in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: recognized for advancing gender equality at national and institutional levels as University of Leeds Woman of Achievement 2021.