Next Pro-Chancellor Appointed At The University Of Leeds

• Published date: 02 December 2021
• Subject Matter: Consumer Protection, Education
• Law Firm: HGF Ltd
• Author: HGF Limited

A Leeds alumnus has been appointed as the next Pro-Chancellor of the University of Leeds.

A lawyer by background, with a strong track record in leadership in education and social mobility issues, Alastair Da Costa will assume the role of Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Council - the University's governing body - from 1 August 2022 for an initial period of three years.

He replaces outgoing Pro-Chancellor David Gray who, on completion of his current term of office in July 2022, will have held the post for nine years.

"As a law graduate, the University of Leeds gave me the foundation upon which to build my career. That encapsulates the life-changing potential of universities."

Alastair Da Costa said: "As a law graduate, the University of Leeds gave me the foundation upon which to build my career. That encapsulates the life-changing potential of universities. I am thrilled to be able to give something back now by taking on this role, particularly at such a pivotal time, as Leeds implements its ambitious 10 year strategy."

David Gray said: "It has been a privilege to serve as Pro-Chancellor for nearly nine years now, during which time the University has gone through immense change, while steadfastly sticking to its core task of improving lives and life chances through research and education. I wish Alastair the very best - he takes up this role at a confident university, with a clear sense of its future direction and mission."

Vice-Chancellor Professor Simone Buitendijk added: "I can't wait to work with Alastair on implementing our vision to be a truly values-driven university, with an unwavering commitment to driving change in the world and addressing inequalities, helping create a fairer future for all. I also thank David for his exceptional support and wise counsel since I took up the role in September 2020. He will be missed."

"We were fortunate to attract a very strong field, but the committee was united in its view that Alastair will be an exceptional Pro-Chancellor."

Ed Anderson, Deputy Pro-Chancellor and nominating committee chair

Deputy Pro-Chancellor, Ed Anderson, who chaired the nominating committee, said: "We were fortunate to attract a very strong field, but the committee was united in its view that Alastair will be an exceptional Pro-Chancellor. He has a clear vision of the purpose of universities in broader society and the...