University of York appoints MD of global consultancy firm as new chancellor

The University of York has appointed Heather Melville as its new chancellor.

Ms Melville, who will be installed as the University’s seventh chancellor in January, succeeds Sir Malcolm Grant who is stepping down from the post he has held since 2015. 

Heather is a senior managing director at the global CEO advisory firm, Teneo. 

A University of York spokesperson said: “She has a proven track record of helping companies to attract, develop and retain the very best talent, and is renowned for her work promoting inclusion and diversity in the workplace, particularly among women and ethnic minorities.”

Heather was recognised with an OBE in 2017 for her services to business and gender equality. In 2019, she secured a place in The Financial Time’s prestigious ‘EMpower Top 100 Minority Leaders’ list, which showcases 100 carefully chosen BAME professionals from the UK and US, and in the PowerList 2022, which recognises the 100 most influential Black British individuals across the UK.

She was formerly director and head of client experience of PricewaterhouseCoopers UK and has held a number of senior positions in a 40 year career spanning corporate and international banking, technology, and most recently professional services. 

Heather has already been working with the university to help promote doctoral study for graduates from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Vice-chancellor Professor Charlie Jeffery said:  “Heather will make a fantastic chancellor for York and I very much look forward to working with her.

“We know Heather will be an inspiring thought-leader and champion for York.”