University Vice-Chancellor joins board of South East England Development Agency

The University of Southampton's Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill Wakeham joins the board of the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) this week for a three-year term.

Professor Wakeham, who currently chairs the Agency's Science, Engineering and Technology Advisory Committee, commented: "I welcome the opportunity to join the board of SEEDA. The South East England Development Agency has a major role to play in the development of the South East, advancing sustainable economic growth in the region and promoting its world-class economy.

"I look forward to contributing to the future of the South East through this role and hope to bring to the board the perspective of the higher education sector in the region. In my capacity as a university Vice-Chancellor, I can contribute to particular areas of importance such as research, education and skills as well as entrepreneurship; while on a personal basis I can offer my experience in the areas of science and engineering."

SEEDA is the Government-funded agency responsible for the economic and social development of the South East of England. As a member of its board, Professor Wakeham will be responsible for moving forward SEEDA's sustainable development agenda, in order to achieve the objectives outlined in the Regional Economic Strategy (RES) for the South East.

Professor Wakeham joins SEEDA's board for a three-year appointment on 14 December.