Charting a Course from Classroom to Campus Leadership: Hazar Korkmazoglu Appointed as LSST Stratford Associate Dean

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There are moments in professional life that resonate beyond personal milestones – they stand as a testament to institutional ethos and individual endeavour alike. For LSST Stratford, the recent appointment of Hazar Korkmazoglu as Associate Dean embodies precisely that: a confluence of capability and character. 

 

Sitting in her LSST Stratford office, composed and confident yet grounded in humility, Hazar momentarily lowers her gaze – not out of reticence, but in thoughtful reflection, her tone measured and deliberate, underlining the gravity of the occasion: “I feel absolutely honoured and humbled by this appointment,” she begins. “It’s a proud milestone in my career and a moment of immense gratitude. To be recognised at this stage and entrusted with a leadership role within an institution that has been integral to my professional journey means the world to me.”  

In a world increasingly focused on instant impact, Hazar’s journey stands as a paragon of patient progression and persistence. With a deep sense of appreciation, Hazar reflects: “My journey at LSST has been nothing short of transformative.”

 

Having entered LSST in 2021 as one of the inaugural Graduate Trainee Lecturers at LSST Elephant and Castle, her initiation was emblematic of embracing the unknown.

 

 “I didn’t know what to expect,” she confesses. “But LSST provided an environment rich in development opportunities with outstanding training.”  

Indeed, from academic rigour to cross-campus collaborations, her ascent through the ranks -Graduate Trainee Lecturer in Business, Trainee Lecturer in Business, Lecturer in Business, Course Coordinator for Business – culminating in her current role as Associate Dean, is as methodical as it is meritorious. 

 

“There were moments of pressure and uncertainty,” she shares, “but LSST’s leadership always recognises potential. That culture of belief in people played a pivotal role in where I am today.” 

 

Asked to isolate key inflection points, Hazar said: “Becoming Course Coordinator was one of the first big steps. It taught me about academic management beyond teaching.”  

Participation in quality audits and external validations further broadened her horizons -strengthening her strategic acumen alongside her pedagogical prowess. Yet, as she affirms, “Being part of the team is one thing. But leading the team requires constant dedication – it’s a challenge I am happy to take.” 

   

An Academic Calling 

Hazar’s foray into academia was catalysed not by mere ambition but by altruism: “My supervisor deeply influenced my passion for academia during my Masters’ in Business Law and International Commercial Law at the University of Hertfordshire,” she recounts. “Her patience and empathy left a lasting impression. It is something I always want to pay it forward.”

From those formative experiences grew a vocation committed not just to disseminating knowledge but to developing people holistically.  

Her current doctoral studies in Higher Education – Research Evaluation and Enhancement, at the University of Lancaster, and pursuit of Senior Fellowship illustrate a lifelong learner leading by example: “LSST has shaped my professional identity. Leadership here isn’t about hierarchy. It’s about empowerment and empathy.” 

 

When asked about immediate goals as Associate Dean, Hazar’s response is as resolute as it is relatable:  

“In summary, my immediate goals are student ascension, staff authenticity and overall academic excellence,” Hazar added: “To be a role model – especially as a new woman in academic leadership. I want to show that with perseverance and the right support, anything is possible.”  

Additionally, with operational objectives centred on community and capacity-building, her agenda is ambitious yet anchored in realism: “Stratford is such a vibrant and diverse community. I want our campus to reflect that energy – to be a place where students feel seen, heard and supported holistically.” 

 

Synergy and Student Success 

Beyond leadership style, Hazar’s commitment to maintaining LSST’s academic excellence tradition is unwavering: “I want to build stronger bridges between theory and real-world application,” she explains. “From guest speakers to local business connections – it’s about ensuring our students graduate not just with qualifications but with outstanding confidence.” 

 

When asked about LSST’s impact on her evolution, Hazar’s voice carries a quiet conviction: 

“You’re never alone at LSST. It’s a big family that uplifts and supports one another.” 

Two mentors, in particular, stand prominently in her narrative: 

“First, Mr Syed Rizvi. From my first day, his continuous faith in me enabled me to achieve beyond my expectations. His knowledge and support are unmatched.” 

She adds: “Eniana, my former Team Leader and Associate Dean at LSST Elephant and Castle –  we were so aligned in values and ambition. Her leadership style – collaborative and compassionate – deeply influenced my own.” 

 

From Experience to Encouragement 

For aspirants within LSST’s growing ecosystem, Hazar’s counsel is both practical and profound: “Believe in yourself and your journey. LSST is evolving. There’s endless opportunity if you’re willing to put in the work. Stay consistent, ask for guidance, and never think your efforts go unnoticed. Hard work, passion and dedication will be recognised here.”  

Her final maxim lands with deliberate clarity: “Believe in yourself and never give up.” 

 

“Hazar exemplifies LSST’s commitment to cultivating talent from within. Her journey from trainee to Associate Dean is not just a personal achievement – it’s an institutional success story. Her leadership is characterised by humility, hard work and a heartfelt dedication to student success,” said Mr Ali Jafar Zaidi, LSST’s Deputy CEO.  

Syed Rizvi, Academic Dean of LSST Elephant & Castle and LSST Stratford and Dean of Learning and Teaching, added: “Hazar’s appointment is not only outstanding – it is perfect for LSST Stratford. Her energy, empathy and expertise align exactly with LSST’s mission. She represents the next generation of academic leaders and blends strategic insight with genuine care for both students and staff.” 

 

As Hazar Korkmazoglu confidently steps into her new role as Associate Dean at LSST’s Stratford Campus, her story serves as both inspiration and guidance. It is a narrative marked by humility, driven by hard work, and defined by a strong sense of dedication to education and empowerment. 

 

For additional information, please direct questions to LSST’s Public Relations Manager via kunal.mehta@lsst.ac. 

 

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