ABSTRACT
The Way Forward was deployed and Cardiff University did indeed increase and improve its academic standing. The longer the Lean University project went on, the importance of leadership as a key determinant of success became ever apparent. The central team consisted of four full-time members of staff working on the project, one of whom led the programme. Working closely with leaders to truly understand what is trying to be achieved, posits more chances of success within this type of organisational environment. In 2012, Professor Colin Riordan joined the University as its new Vice Chancellor. One of the first things that he instigated when he came was to instigate a new College Structure in order to streamline executive decisions and provide greater visibility. The competition within the sector is the fiercest it has ever been; the political, social and economic environment that people operate within has never been so tough and unforgiving.
