New Chair Elect for University Council

Gary Dixon has been appointed Chair-Elect of Council for the University of Leicester after a competitive and open recruitment process. Commencing the role on Thursday 1 August 2019, he will take over from Bridget Towle CBE whose term of office as Chair ends on Wednesday 31 July 2019.

A Leicester graduate who studied Physics and Astrophysics, Mr Dixon is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. He has over 25 years’ experience at board level within financial services and has held numerous non-executive roles. These have spanned the banking, pensions, building society, insurance, investment sectors and many more. He has been a member of the University Council for 10 years and its Treasurer since August 2018.

Gary said: “It gives me great pleasure to succeed Bridget as Chair of Council. I would like to pay tribute on behalf of all of Council and the leadership team to her dedication and leadership to the University.

“I look forward to continuing to serve Leicester and playing my part in helping the University grow its reputation as a centre of excellence for research, teaching and student experience. I look forward to engaging with students and staff, and working with the leadership team and my Council colleagues to deliver the University’s ambitions.”

Bridget, who has served as Chair of Council since 2013, said: "It has been an enormous privilege to have been involved with such a fantastic institution.

“I am delighted that Gary has agreed to be the next Chair of Council. Gary brings to the role a great wealth of experience together with his passion for higher education. The University will be in very good hands. I will be watching with pride as the University continues to progress into its next century and would like to wish everyone and Gary every success for the future.”

Professor Edmund Burke, Acting Vice-Chancellor, said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks to Bridget. She has been hugely committed to Leicester and has made a significant contribution to the University.”

“I am looking forward to working with Gary. I have no doubt that his advice and guidance will make an important contribution to the University’s future success.”

Visit our Council web pages to read more about its members and its role in our governance.