The Vice-Chancellor’s role is to lead the University, and to help to direct and achieve the University’s strategy goals. The Vice-Chancellor also chairs the University Senate, sits on the University Council, is response for securing sufficient funding, and represents the University externally.
Professor Phillip Wright is Acting Vice-Chancellor at the University of Southampton
Phillip Wright took up the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor on 1 June 2026.
Phillip is a Professor of Chemical Engineering and a Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers and a Chartered Engineer.
In his research, he uses synthetic biology and metabolic engineering approaches to improve energy generation and production of biopharmaceuticals.
Phil joined the University of Southampton in 2021 as the Senior Vice-President (Academic), playing a vital role in promoting and maintaining the University’s academic mission including having oversight of all academic planning across faculties and ensuring the alignment of resources with the University’s strategic goals.
Before joining Southampton, Phillip was Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering at Newcastle University
You can contact the Vice-Chancellor by getting in touch with Marie Cross, Executive Officer. Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 8681 or email: vice-chancellor-eo@southampton.ac.uk .
How the University is run
Learn about how the University is run, and who helps to make the most important decisions about our strategy
Useful links
Information on Vice-Chancellor remuneration
