Chancellor

John Studzinski CBE was installed as the Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University in October 2024. 

John Studzinski CBE, a US-born British citizen, is Managing Director and Vice Chairman of PIMCO, noted for its innovative approach to investment. Since joining PIMCO in 2018, he has advanced global strategy while serving as a key strategic advisor to major clients around the world.

In the vanguard of investment management and asset management for more than 40 years, he has pioneered transformation in senior roles at such organisations as Morgan Stanley, HSBC and Blackstone. 

John’s experience in both global business leadership and philanthropy is anchored in his belief in the primacy of human dignity.

His commitment to philanthropy has found expression in the context of prestigious global institutions and of start-up organisations. The charity he established in 2001, the Genesis Foundation, supports and nurtures outstanding artists and creative professionals, and as Founding President of Arise, established in 2015, he furthers frontline anti-slavery work on four continents. He is also Vice-Chair Emeritus of Human Rights Watch.

Among his honours is a CBE for services to the arts and charity, awarded to him in the Queen’s 2008 New Year’s Honours List. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and a bachelor’s degree from Bowdoin College.

His values and focus on social justice align completely with those of the University and we are proud and privileged to welcome him to our community.

The Chancellor of Leeds Trinity performs a ceremonial role, acting as a key ambassador for the University.

Amongst the Chancellor's key responsibilities is the conferment of degrees at graduation ceremonies.