Introduction to the Handbook

In the wake of the global pandemic and the associated advent of new working conditions, distance technologies, and other factors contributing to a rapidly evolving landscape of international higher education during the first quarter of the 21st century, higher education workforce and leadership dynamics are undergoing a profound transformation (McNaughtan et al., 2023; Rumbley, 2020). The purpose of this Handbook is to provide space for an insightful and comprehensive overview of many of the key challenges and opportunities faced by higher education institutions worldwide as they adapt to the changing nature of work and learning. This Handbook places a particular focus on understanding and managing the workforce shifts brought about by the rise of remote work and online learning (Oliveira et al., 2021), emphasizing the critical role of these employees in enhancing student experiences and institutional effectiveness (Affouneh et al., 2020). The digital age has ushered in a new era of education, with remote work and online learning becoming more prevalent than ever before (McNaughtan et al., 2023). As a result, higher education institutions are grappling with the need to align their workforce and leadership strategies with this transformative shift (McNaughtan, 2023). The Handbook explores the multifaceted aspects of this transformation and offers practical guidance for educational leaders, administrators, and faculty members.