Claire Whittingham

VP, Education Services

Claire leads the EMEA business at Risepoint, overseeing the teams based in the UK who are dedicated to helping universities grow so more student can access career connected education, improving their career opportunities and meet employer and community needs. 

Before joining Risepoint, Claire was a Managing Director at QS Quacquarelli Symonds. Prior to that she was Chief Growth Officer at AVADO Learning, where amongst other activities she led strategic partnerships with Google and Tableau. She transitioned into education from a leading Venture Builder Investment firm and working in M&A Consulting at Deloitte, following a PhD in Mineral Physics at University of Cambridge.

Claire’s is passionate about delivering a positive impact for society through her work. She is also trustee of a national youth charity in the UK, Onside, who believes that all young people deserve access to opportunities.  

What traits do you admire in a leader?

Active listener, Clarity in Communication, Curiosity, Empathy, Humble, Fun, Customer Centric

What are your core values?

Solutions Focus, Empathy & Team Empowerment, Continuous Learning, Customer Centricity, Innovation and Having Fun

What is a Risepoint moment in your life…

I’ve always liked working in education. About 15 years ago, I launched the Squared Online programme – a partnership between Google and AVADO. It was at a graduation that I realised the impact mine and the teams work was having, when graduates would say to me, “You changed my life.”. Those moments gave me such value and satisfaction from my role, and is something I have looked to retain throughout my career.