Mrs Karen Presacane

Date joined RBI and previous employment

Karen joined what was then the 'Commercialisation and Consultancy Services' department in 2011 before RBI formed, as a Project Manager. Karen joined the university in 2006 previously working in Residential Services as a Duty Manager and the Finance department.  She has been in her role of Project Quality Assurance Manager in RBI since 2014.

Main responsibilities at previous employment

Karen was Project Manager & Business Development Officer for the ESF funded 'Access to Masters' project, supporting collaborations between organisations and postgraduates on research projects that are part of taught masters degrees.

Education and work experience

Karen studied Business and finance at Swansea Metropolitan University before working in various financial roles in London in both the private and public sector, working for City University, London for 3 years.

Experience and knowledge

Karen has experience of project managing large complex projects as well as overseeing a portfolio of projects. Karen has experience of working on the interface between academia and industry, setting up Postgraduate research projects with SME's, which required business development and contract negotiation skills. Her background in various financial roles has equipped her with a firm foundation in budget management, forecasting and grant claim completion. Karen's time as a Duty Manager provided an opportunity to lead large teams in a dynamic environment, and subsequent roles have provided further leadership opportunities.

Main responsibilities within RBI

Karen manages the post award function at RBI, overseeing the Project Management pillar and Project Managers. She ensures project quality assurance through post award support, monitoring and guidance and sharing best practise to ensure compliant delivery of large grants.  Karen is also the Equality Champion and Sustainability champion for RBI.

Most enjoyable part of working at Aberystwyth University

Karen enjoys helping colleagues from across the university with post award delivery and compliance queries and advice, and the varied nature of the role.