Conclusions from Working Group 2: (part 2) The Changing Academic Community and its Relation to Stakeholders Chair: Millicent Poole Vice- Chancellor Edith Cowan University Australia

…2… Main issues discussed The changing definition of external stakeholders From local to international The implications in terms of managing relationships The notion of complex matrix of choice and priorities Managing pressures, tensions and risks Different pressures from different stakeholder groups Tensions in terms of competition versus collaboration Risks of modifying/endangering core values and the very nature of the university

…3… Main issues discussed Stakeholder management Importance of identifying and targeting stakeholders according to the strategic objectives of the institution Importance of analysing and managing stakeholders’ expectations and values Need to establish specific structures to manage the relationships Challenges of transnational and international relationships

…4… Recommendations Higher education institutions should: Map their stakeholder relationships in terms of high, medium or low priority Establish strategies for stakeholder management and a process/methodology to evaluate the relationships and the benefits to their mission Ensure that the institution’s core values are maintained yet responsive to the new environment

…5… Open question How to move from stakeholder partnerships to alliances and networks? The question of values The question of commitment and engagement The need for trust The question of long-term objectives and positioning Stategies of risk assessment and exit