University of Southampton delighted to appoint new Vice-Chancellor

The University of Southampton has today (Monday, 22 June) announced the appointment of Professor Charlie Jeffery CBE as its next Vice-Chancellor and President.

Professor Jeffery is currently Vice-Chancellor at the University of York, a role he has served with purpose and distinction since 2019.

A highly respected leader in the sector, he brings with him a deep-rooted interest in the role of universities in promoting economic development and in creating opportunities for wider access to education both here in the UK and internationally.

Building on Southampton’s global reputation for excellence with real-world impact he will bring a focus on preparing graduates to flourish in a rapidly changing labour market and on harnessing research to the benefit of our economy and society.

At Southampton, he will oversee the creation of a pioneering new Institute for Medical Innovation, bringing together engineers, clinicians and computer scientists to accelerate the discovery of life-changing treatments and technologies.

He will also pursue further opportunities to extend Southampton’s international reach, while championing the university’s vital role as a civic partner at the heart of the region, and driving forward its commitments to sustainability and inclusion.

Professor Jeffery will take up the position on October 1, shortly after Southampton has played host to the British Science Festival, and as the university prepares to enter its 75th anniversary year.

Professor Jeffery said : “I am honoured to be joining the University of Southampton at such an exciting moment.

“I am hugely impressed by Southampton’s commitment to partnership working in the region and beyond. It is more important than ever that universities engage what they do with the communities they serve, and I look forward to building on this rich tradition of civic partnership to deliver impact locally, nationally and globally.

“The creation of the Institute for Medical Innovation demonstrates Southampton’s philanthropic spirit and highlights how collaborative research is key to making breakthroughs that will change people’s lives. I am struck by how this commitment to collaboration for impact is so strong across all the University’s faculties.

“I would like to thank students and colleagues at York for their inspiration and support and am looking forward to meeting staff, students and alumni in Southampton.”

Chair of the University’s Council, Professor Sir Ian Diamond, added : “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Charlie Jeffery and look forward to welcoming him to the University of Southampton in October.

“Southampton has a long and proud history of bringing world-leading researchers together to achieve real progress. Professor Jeffery’s leadership, experience and vision will ensure the University continues to thrive in the years ahead.

“I would also like to thank Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Phil Wright, for his leadership and commitment during this period of transition.

“I know our whole community will join me in welcoming Professor Jeffery to Southampton.”

Professor Jeffery’s previous positions have included Senior Vice-Principal at the University of Edinburgh from 2014-19 and Chair of the Political Studies Association of the UK from 2009-12. He also served as a member of the Economic and Social Research Council from 2006-12.