The Student Life team (previously Student Administration and Support) and colleagues across the University are saddened by the sudden and unexpected death of Mr Phil Leonard, Head of Student Administration.
Phil completed a degree in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting at Cardiff University before returning home to the Wirral with his future wife, Emma, who he met in Cardiff in 1997.
Phil started his career in MVC, a high street music shop, where he became branch manager, his love of music continued throughout his life. After a brief stint at Liverpool John Moores University as an Admissions Officer, Phil started at the University in 2005 as a Senior Administrator. In this role, he took on responsibility for organising the student facing elements of graduation, a responsibility he retained throughout his time within Student Administration and Support (now Student Life). Phil could be seen at every graduation ceremony, paying attention to all the details to ensure it was a wonderful day for students and their families. What appeared seamless to others took many weeks of preparation and coordination of a large team.
Phil used these same attributes in all elements of his role and was known for attention to detail and his love of grammar. Colleagues will miss his metaphorical red pen! Phil was recognised as a source of knowledge across the University and his commitment to students was clear to all.
Phil was responsible for implementing and maintaining large operational processes which are essential to the smooth running of the University. Whilst many will not have known who designed and improved processes, his work touched the lives of many thousands of students and colleagues.
Phil will be remembered as a kind and supportive colleague, a force for good with a dry sense of humour and as a key player in the Divisional Fantasy Football league. He had a strong sense of style, a particular favourite in the office was his purple suit. He was a proud dad to Kian and Evie and husband to Emma Leonard, Head of Governance and Deputy Secretary at the University. A dog lover, he was often joined on Teams Calls by Bruce his Hungarian Vizsla and had previously rescued two former racing greyhounds. He also provided colleagues with free range eggs from his chickens.
Phil’s death has been keenly felt by colleagues right across the University. Those who wish to pay tribute to Phil can do so in this online book of remembrance which will be printed for his family. The book will remain open until the 14th June.
Phil’s funeral will take place on Wednesday 19 June 2024 at 2pm at Landican Cemetery and Crematorium, Arrowe Park Road, Woodchurch CH49 5LW. This will be followed by a wake at The Manor, 91 Greasby Road, Greasby, Wirral CH49 3NF. Family flowers only, details of charity for donations will be confirmed shortly. Black not expected, all are welcome.