Alistair Jarvis has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of
Universities UK (UUK), the organisation which represents 136
universities in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. He
will take on this role from today [Monday 7 August 2017].
Alistair has been Deputy Chief Executive of UUK since January
2016. He joined UUK in October 2013, first as Director of
Communications and External Relations, before being named Deputy
Chief Executive. He brings to his new role significant experience
of higher education and political engagement, working as a
Director at the University of Birmingham, for the 1994 Group, for
national campaigns and in communications consultancy. He is also
well-known within the sector as a speaker and commentator on HE
issues.
Alistair said: “It is a privilege to be taking on this role to
represent the UK’s world-class university sector. Our
universities are united in shared values of openness, tolerance,
creativity and a commitment to discovery and learning. Given the
current economic and social challenges, it is crucial that these
values and the voice of our universities are heard.
“I look forward to working with our new President and with
university leaders to ensure that our sector continues to thrive
and to support universities to further their positive impact
across all four nations of the UK. My early priorities will be to
strengthen the voice of universities in current policy debates,
promote the many and diverse strengths of our sector, and enhance
our engagement with members in all corners of the UK.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the work of my predecessor,
Nicola Dandridge, for the exceptional contribution that she has
made to UUK and to the higher education sector over her eight
years as Chief Executive. I look forward to building on her
legacy together with the talented and committed team at UUK."
Professor Janet Beer, who took up the role of UUK President on 1
August 2017, said: “The challenges and opportunities afforded by
the current economic, social and political climate mean that UUK
was seeking a Chief Executive with a strong track record in
campaigning, political advocacy, and the ability to connect with
a diverse range of stakeholders. Alistair’s skills, experience
and sector knowledge made him an outstanding candidate.
“As I start my two-year term of office, I am delighted at the
prospect of working with Alistair and seeing his ideas and fresh
perspective used to help the sector face the challenges ahead
with confidence.”
Notes to Editors:
- The appointment was made by a panel consisting of UUK Board
members, with the decision ratified by the UUK Executive
consisting of the three Vice Presidents, the Treasurer and the
President. The outcome of the process has been shared with the
full UUK Board and UUK members.
- Nicola Dandridge was named as the first CEO of the new Office
for Students, and subsequently stepped down as Chief Executive of
Universities UK, in July 2017 after eight years at the
organisation.
