Ann Masterson

Background

About Ann Masterson

A dynamic and visionary leader in higher education, Ann is the current Head of Discipline for Human Resource Management at Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), where she leads the strategic development, quality assurance, and academic leadership of the HRM discipline across multiple campuses. Her work is closely aligned with TU Dublin’s Strategic Intent 2030 and the Faculty of Business’s mission to advance business and management practice, learning, and engagement at the highest level. Ann brings over 20 years of progressive experience in industry and academic leadership, including; programme development and quality assurance, having previously served as Academic Registrar and Senior Lecturer at Dublin Business School, as well as other key roles in Higher Education both in Ireland and New Zealand. Her expertise spans lecturing, research, curriculum design, academic assessment, and the management of multi-disciplinary teams. She is renowned for her commitment to creating innovative, industry-led programmes and fostering a collaborative, student-centred learning environment. Ann is a highly experienced External Examiner, having held roles across Ireland and the UK. She is currently External Examiner for the BA Applied Leadership & Management programme (Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship) at Coventry University and has previously served as External Examiner at the University of Plymouth. Her extensive external examining experience underpins her deep commitment to maintaining the highest standards in programme delivery and assessment. She is also a member of the National Skills Council, advising the Irish Government on future skills requirements, and a member of the QQI Expert Group on Enterprise Engagement, contributing to the development of national quality assurance policies and enterprise-education partnerships. Ann’s research focuses on SME–University engagement, especially enhancing collaboration between Irish tourism SMEs and higher education institutions. She explores collaboration models, drivers of effective partnerships, and how engagement is defined in tourism. Her work identifies best practices for sustainable partnerships and informs academic and policy discussions on HEI–industry collaboration Ann is committed to excellence, impact, and inclusion—values she embeds in daily practice. She champions a collaborative culture that prioritises student experience, industry engagement, and the continuous advancement of management practice.