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Reappointment of Professor Wendy Thomson to lead UoL until 2028

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The Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, Professor Wendy Thomson CBE, is to lead the institution until 2028, the University has confirmed. 

Professor Wendy Thomson CBE, Vice-Chancellor of the University of London

Professor Thomson joined as Vice-Chancellor in 2019 and has transformed the University over recent years. The Board is keen to ensure that the University has stability in leadership over the coming years so that Professor Thomson can continue to build on and embed the progress made in transforming the University and increasing its positive impact across the world.

Sir Richard Dearlove, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said: “I am delighted to confirm that Professor Wendy Thomson will be staying as our Vice Chancellor until 2028.

“Under Professor Thomson’s leadership the University of London has made great progress in redefining and reshaping its role as a leading institution of higher education of global relevance. In spite of the hugely disruptive effects of the pandemic, the University has nonetheless been able to strengthen its financial position as well as enhancing the University of London’s Worldwide programmes, growing its civic impact in London, building its role as the national leader for the advanced study of the humanities, and repurposing aspects of the iconic Senate House which are now accessible to students from across the Federation. The renewal of Professor Thomson’s appointment will allow her and her leadership team the stability and continuity to deliver fully on their ambitious strategy for the Federal University, securing its future role in today’s rapidly shifting domestic and international environment.

The decision by the Board of Trustees to reappoint Professor Thomson for a five-year term to summer 2028 was taken following a recommendation of the Joint Appointments Committee, which is made up of members of Collegiate Council and the Board of Trustees.

Professor Thomson said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to continue as Vice-Chancellor of the University of London and I thank the Board for its endorsement. I am pleased by what we have achieved, which has seen the enormous challenges of a global pandemic met with an impressive response from our staff and students - a huge achievement in difficult circumstances. The University has taken important steps to transform and modernise our organisation and services to students and federation members, progress that I want to further in the years ahead. I’m excited about the many opportunities we have to make a positive impact and reach to deliver life-changing education to students and communities around the world.”

Professor Thomson was appointed in 2019 as the second female Vice-Chancellor of the University of London. The first was Professor Lillian Penson in 1948.

This page was last updated on 10 January 2023