We are proud to announce that Jiteen Ahmed will join us as our second confirmed keynote speaker at the IST Conference at the University of Liverpool on Tuesday 15th September.
With 27 years of service at Aston University, Jiteen has become a driving force in shaping, strengthening and championing the technical community. His leadership has been described as transformational — combining deep practical expertise with a clear and compelling vision for how technical services can empower teaching, research and innovation.
From Trainee Technician to Head of Technical Services
Jiteen began his career at Aston in 1998 as a trainee technician. Through dedication, continuous professional development and a commitment to supporting others, he progressed to Technical Team Leader in Pharmacy, managing a team of ten, and now serves as Head of Technical Services in the College of Life & Health Sciences (LHS).
Alongside this, he undertakes critical specialist responsibilities including:
- Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS)
- Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer for LHS
- Chair of the Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC) Laboratory Group
- Advisor in STEM procurement and contributor to Midlands Innovation
His journey is a powerful example of how technical careers can evolve through opportunity, support and determination.
Transforming Facilities, Transforming Culture
One of Jiteen’s most significant achievements has been leading the redevelopment of the Pharmacy Laboratory at Aston University.
From securing initial funding through to final delivery, he ensured the facility was:
- Inclusive
- Sustainable
- Technically outstanding
The result? A laboratory shortlisted for two Constructing Excellence Awards and now regarded as a sector-leading model, attracting visits from institutions across the UK who are taking Aston’s approach forward in their own universities.
But bricks and mortar are only part of the story.
Championing People and Career Pathways
Perhaps Jiteen’s most lasting impact has been his commitment to people.
He has restructured Aston’s technical workforce, embedding clear career pathways and creating meaningful opportunities for development. Colleagues who had not accessed training for years are now thriving — gaining recognition, building confidence, and achieving promotions.
When reflecting on what motivates him most, Jiteen is clear:
His passion lies in supporting and developing others, training the next generation of technicians, and sharing knowledge across the technical community.
He understands that sustainable excellence in universities depends on investing in the people who make teaching and research possible.
A National Advocate for Technicians
Jiteen’s influence extends well beyond Aston.
He has become a national advocate for the profession, contributing to:
- The Midlands Innovation TALENT Commission
- The Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC), where he serves as Chair
At Aston, he has amplified technician visibility at the highest levels of decision-making. Elected to Senate to represent professional services, he has ensured that technician voices are heard where it matters most.
For Jiteen, this is not simply governance — it is a personal mission.
Recognition — and Remarkable Humility
Jiteen’s dedication has been recognised through multiple honours, including:
- The Chancellor’s Medal (2020)
- The One Aston Award (2024)
Yet despite these accolades and national recognition, he remains disarmingly humble.
When shortlisted nationally, his response was characteristically honest:
“I struggle with imposter syndrome and still can’t believe that’s my name on the list!”
This authenticity and warmth are qualities colleagues consistently highlight. His leadership is grounded not in ego, but in service.
A Career Built on Development and Opportunity
Throughout his time at Aston, Jiteen has actively invested in his own growth. He completed a degree with the Open University — founded by Aston — and has continually used professional development processes to identify training that would support both his own progression and the university’s strategic aims.
Reflecting on his career, he credits supportive line management and the opportunity to contribute beyond his immediate role — serving on groups such as SUPC and Midlands Innovation — as instrumental in his development.
When asked what he values most about working at Aston, he highlights two things:
- Genuine support for career progression
- The people
“You have support for career development — your job is not rigid. If you worked in industry you might be sat in front of one machine, whereas at Aston there is a chance to progress. And the people are nice!”
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Keynote
Jiteen Ahmed’s keynote will offer insight into:
- Transformational leadership within technical services
- Building inclusive, future-ready laboratory environments
- Creating meaningful technician career pathways
- National advocacy and raising the visibility of the profession
- Developing others while navigating imposter syndrome and leadership growth
His story is one of quiet determination, generosity, and a steadfast belief in the power of technical services to transform universities.
Join Us at IST Conference 2026
University of Liverpool on Tuesday 15th September
To explore the full programme and secure your place, visit:
istonline.org.uk/conference-2026
We look forward to welcoming you — and to hearing from Jiteen Ahmed in what promises to be an inspiring and empowering keynote.