In his first few months as Vice-Chancellor, Professor Egbu will meet students, staff, alumni and stakeholders as he begins to build on the University’s growth and success in recent years and looks to the future beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Professor Egbu said: “I’m delighted to join Leeds Trinity University and am honoured to begin my role as Vice-Chancellor. 

“Leeds Trinity is a special University, led by its commitment to widening participation and championing an inclusive learning community. Over recent months, it has been inspiring to see how colleagues and students have responded to the COVID-19 crisis. This is testament to the University’s strong foundations in learning, teaching and employability, and I have every confidence we will continue to take strides forward in these areas.

“I am looking forward to listening to and working with the exceptionally talented community of Leeds Trinity students, colleagues, alumni and partners to shape the future strategy of the institution. I’m proud to join the team and would like to thank colleagues and friends of the University for their warm welcome.” 

With more than 25 years’ experience in higher education, Professor Egbu was previously Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Experience at the University of East London, where he was responsible for student experience, student success, student retention, quality assurance and enhancement, the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, and the Students’ Union. He is also a member of various external bodies, including the Advance HE Pro Vice-Chancellor Network and QAA Panel of Experts. Read Professor Egbu’s full biography here.

Jamie Hanley, Chair of the Board of Governors at Leeds Trinity University, said: “This is a pivotal moment for Leeds Trinity University. Professor Egbu recognises Leeds Trinity’s strengths and values and brings with him a detailed understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced across the higher education sector. I’m delighted to welcome him to the University.” 

Chelsey Grooby, Leeds Trinity Students’ Union President, added: “Union members and I welcome Professor Charles Egbu as he joins Leeds Trinity University. Having already had the pleasure of meeting him it is clear we share a passion for student welfare. A strong relationship between the University and Union is crucial for the student experience and we endeavour to develop this further. We are excited by the prospect of new collaborations that will deliver transparent and logical steps to support students to reach their potential despite the challenges we have faced and continue to face during 2020.” 

Since the institution gained University status in 2013, Leeds Trinity has achieved record levels of student enrolments; diversified its income streams with the introduction of accredited work-based learning routes, degree and higher apprenticeships and foundation year courses; transformed its approach to research, resulting in world-leading research and a thriving community of PhD students; and is striving to achieve Research Degree Awarding Powers (RDAP). 

Professor Egbu takes over from Professor Margaret A House OBE, who steps down after seven years as Vice-Chancellor.