Alejandra Vicencio is a seasoned international higher education leader and consultant with 25 years of experience in the sector supporting institutions and governments worldwide in advancing internationalisation strategies and leadership capacity. Through AVIEC she provides expert advice, tailored mentorship, and strategic support designed to help higher education professionals navigate complex global challenges and implement sustainable, context-sensitive internationalisation initiatives.
Ale is an accomplished mentor, guiding emerging leaders and international education professionals to develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in dynamic, multicultural environments. She has been mentoring international education professionals for EAIE since 2016. She is also a passionate speaker, regularly invited to present at international conferences, workshops, and webinars, where she shares insights on inclusive internationalisation, student mobility, and education governance.
Ale was Co-chair of the Risk Management group within the Outward Mobility Network at Universities UK International (UUKi). She was Chair of the Student and Staff Mobility Thematic Committee for the European Association of International Education (EAIE) from 2022-2024 and is currently Chair of the Student and Staff Mobility Thematic Committee.
In addition to her consultancy work, Ale is currently Chief Executive Officer for Alvis Pathway, a global international education pathway company, making NCUK programmes accessible to students from every corner of the world.
Ale also has extensive experience in international education funding applications and assessment, having worked for Chevening Scholarships as an Assessor for nearly 10 years, as an evaluator consultant for the ACU (Association of Commonwealth Universities) virtual projects, and Santander scholarships.
Ale has a research background in internationalisation of higher education, focusing on the development and evaluation of global engagement policies, equity in student mobility, and governance frameworks within diverse educational contexts. Her research informs her consultancy approach, ensuring evidence-based strategies that align with the specific needs and realities of her partners, particularly within the Global South.
Outside of her professional life, Ale draws inspiration from her love of travel, nature, and cultural experiences — passions she often shares on her Instagram. She is also an animal lover and proud sponsor of a donkey at the Elizabeth Svendsen Donkey Sanctuary in Birmingham, UK. Committed to community engagement, Alejandra volunteers for various organisations, including as a Trustee for Stanhope Scouts, believing strongly in giving back and fostering positive change at every level.
This holistic perspective helps Ale connect deeply with partners and colleagues across cultures, making her consultancy approach both grounded and personable. Alejandra’s work is characterised by a deep commitment to fostering equitable and effective international education systems through leadership development, strategic planning, and collaborative partnerships. She combines practical experience with academic rigour to deliver impactful solutions that drive meaningful and lasting change.
Find out more on her LinkedIn profile, including recommendations: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandravicencio/
Alejandra Vicencio International Education Consultancy 