Charlie Jeffery stepping down as York’s Vice-Chancellor

Posted on Monday 22 June 2026

Charlie has led the University of York since 2019.

Professor Ken Badcock, the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor, will take over as our interim leader from 1 September. 

There will next be a recruitment process for a permanent Vice-Chancellor, which includes opportunities to hear from students, with York Students’ Union also involved.

Commenting on his move from York, Charlie said: “It has been an absolute honour to lead the University of York. It has been a privilege to work alongside colleagues, students and alumni as the University has seen both extraordinary successes and met significant challenges. 

“We have seen a global pandemic (including that first confirmed UK case of Covid here at York), relentless sector pressures and a turbulent geopolitical landscape. Amid all that, we've seen inspirational achievements in education and research, brilliant student successes, and new partnerships for public good forged in the communities around us, and across the world. 

“I leave with immense pride in how York has collectively met those opportunities and difficulties - with creativity, care, compassion, all underpinned by a deep sense of shared purpose in seeking new ways to help society flourish, and supporting students and colleagues of all kinds to achieve their potential. That shared, collective commitment marks York out. It is the platform for the University’s continuing success.

“York has a very exciting future as an engine for change and progress in Yorkshire, the UK, City College in Greece, and now also in Mumbai and across India. I know I am leaving York as a confident, resilient and determined University that is a powerful force for public good.”