Outstanding Contributions of Long‑Serving Staff
The University of Liverpool John Moores recently marked a significant achievement: 54 staff members reached important career milestones, accumulating a collective 1,560 years of service. From 25‑year jubilees to 50‑year anniversaries, these recognitions highlight the institution’s dedication to employee longevity and impact on the academic community.
Recognizing Career Milestones
Milestone celebrations at LJMU cover 25, 35, 45, and 50‑year appointments. This inclusive approach signals respect for all roles—academic, administrative, and support staff. The university’s celebration event, held in November 2025, featured personal stories and tribute videos that captured the journey of each nominee.
Profiles of Inspiration
- Elizabeth Campbell – 45 years as a Catering Assistant in Campus Services. Her story illustrates how long‑term service contributes to student life quality.
- Dr. Shaqil Chaudary – 25 years progressing from lecturer to Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Dr. Chaudary emphasizes how institutional support fuels career development.
- Professor Zoe Knowles – From undergraduate student (1993) to Professor of Engagement and Learning. Her continuous affiliation shows a successful career path within a single university.
These narratives showcase multiple pathways to success—undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional tracks—all supported by LJMU’s people strategy.
Benefits of Celebrating Long Service
Employee Engagement and Retention
Public recognitions boost morale and signal that hard work is valued. Surveys from UK universities indicate that recognition events can increase retention rates by up to 15%. Employees appreciate symbolic awards that link personal milestones with organisational achievements.
Strengthening Institutional Culture
Long‑serving staff become cultural ambassadors: they embody institutional values, mentor new hires, and maintain continuity in academic programs. Their presence fosters a stable learning environment that benefits students and colleagues alike.
Positive External Perception
Media coverage of such celebrations elevates the university’s brand, attracting high‑quality applicants and partners. This visibility can lead to increased student applications and corporate collaborations, positioning LJMU as an employer of choice.
Learning from LJMU’s Approach
Comprehensive People Plan
JLMU’s People Plan integrates long‑service recognition as a pillar of employee benefits. Key components include:
- Regular milestone announcements in internal newsletters.
- Personalised certificates and public acknowledgments.
- Inclusion of stories in external press releases.
- Connection to professional development opportunities.
Actionable Step 1: Map Milestone Criteria
Define distinct milestone thresholds (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 years) and the associated reward structure. This clarity encourages employees to chart long‑term careers.
Actionable Step 2: Leverage Digital Platforms
Use intranet or corporate social media to highlight alumni achievements, celebrating staff at every milestone. Short video clips or photo montages personalize the experience.
Actionable Step 3: Embed Recognition in Performance Reviews
Include long‑service achievements in annual reviews to reinforce the organisation’s commitment to career sustainability.
How Other Institutions Can Emulate LJMU
Universities across the UK can design a tailored long‑service strategy by following these practical steps:
- Conduct a Staff Longevity Audit – Identify current longest‑serving employees and collect their career trajectories.
- Create a Tiered Recognition Calendar – Schedule celebratory events aligned with the academic year, ensuring maximum visibility.
- Integrate Stories into Marketing Campaigns – Include testimonials in recruitment materials to demonstrate a supportive work environment.
- Connect with Alumni Networks – Encourage former staff to share experiences, fostering a continuous dialogue about career longevity.
- Measure Impact – Track retention statistics before and after implementing recognition programs to quantify benefits.
Case Study: Implementing a 25‑Year Award Program
Many institutions start with a single milestone award. A 25‑year recognition banner, accompanied by a signed letter from the Vice‑Chancellor, can serve as a tangible token. A well‑publicised event further amplifies the personal satisfaction and institutional pride.
Action Items for University Leaders
- Assess current employee demographics to identify potential milestone candidates.
- Design a recognisable certification kit (trophy, certificate, letter).
- Draft an annual calendar of celebrations with allocated budgets.
- Promote the program through newsletters, press releases, and campus events.
- Monitor employee sentiment and retention post‑implementation.
Implementing a robust long‑service celebration framework not only rewards loyalty but also reinforces a culture that values growth, commitment, and collective achievement.
Explore Your Future at LJMU
Interested in becoming part of a workplace that honors dedication? Discover current vacancies and see how LJMU supports long‑term career development.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today and start your journey at Liverpool John Moores University.
For more information on our people strategies, contact HR or visit our People Plan page.
