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Birkbeck announces Professor Sally Wheeler as its new Vice-Chancellor

Former Birkbeck academic returns as Vice-Chancellor.

Professor Sally Wheeler, OBE
Professor Sally Wheeler, OBE

Birkbeck, University of London is pleased to announce that Professor Sally Wheeler, OBE has been appointed as its new Vice-Chancellor and will take up her new post on 1st January 2024.

Professor Wheeler is currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International and Corporate) at the Australian National University.

She has nearly 30 years of experience in Higher Education management, encompassing leadership of both research and education at the highest levels. Her senior appointments have included Dean, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor in successive major institutions.  She has made significant contributions to institutional change and development in all these roles.

Professor Wheeler will join Birkbeck as it advances into its third Century - a time of ongoing challenge but also significant future opportunity. 

As Vice-Chancellor, she will lead, support and work with the whole Birkbeck community to deliver the developments and ongoing change necessary for the University to secure its future, meet the changing needs of its students and continue its mission to transform lives through accessible, inclusive, and inspiring education in an environment informed by outstanding research.

Professor Sally Wheeler said: “Birkbeck has a unique place within the fabric of UK HE and I am excited to have the opportunity to lead it as it enters its third century. It offers the things that everyone who works in higher education should value - opportunities for students that they cannot get elsewhere, a commitment to access and diversity, and research of exceptional quality.

“I spent three years at Birkbeck in the early 2000s and it was the most stimulating and enjoyable teaching experience of my career. I know just how dedicated Birkbeck’s academic and professional services staff are, and I look forward to working with them again.

“I look forward to being the advocate for Birkbeck and the value of its mission with business, Government, the cultural sectors, alumni and other potential supporters.” 

Sir Andrew Cahn, Chair of Birkbeck’s Governors said: “I am delighted that we have appointed Sally Wheeler as our next Vice-Chancellor.  She is a distinguished scholar, a fine administrator, and an exceptional person.  She is strongly aligned to our values and our culture, having taught here earlier in her career. It is a pleasure to welcome her back to Birkbeck. 

“It speaks to the unique contribution Birkbeck makes to Britain’s higher education that we attracted a strong and diverse field. 

“As we enter our third century, Sally will be driving forward the change needed to secure our future; to provide the platform for financial stability, growth and confidence; and to ensure that we continue to deliver on our core mission.”

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