York University Vice-Chancellor Charlie Jeffrey named as Chair of Yorkshire Universities
Professor Charlie Jeffery
Professor Charlie Jeffery has been appointed as the new Chair of Yorkshire Universities, a partnership of 12 higher education institutions in the region.
Jeffrey succeeds Professor Dave Petley, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hull, who has taken up a new position as Vice-Chancellor at Nottingham Trent University.
Jeffrey will oversee the recently launched 2025-2030 strategy for Yorkshire Universities and play a role in strengthening the group’s relationships with national and local partners. He is a member of boards of key organizations in the City of York, including the York Central Steering Board.
“The higher education sector is one of this country’s most successful industries. The Government has called on universities to help deliver the growth the country needs, recognising how important higher education is for local and regional economies, and how the sector forms part of the fabric of local communities,” Jeffrey comments.
“Yorkshire Universities is an effective vehicle in which universities, although facing complex financial pressures, can work together to widen and deepen collaboration between themselves, and with partners to use all our teaching provision and research capabilities to improve skills, increase innovation, and attract new investment to drive improved productivity and prosperity in Yorkshire.”
Dr Peter O’Brien, YU Executive Director, adds: “I am delighted to welcome and congratulate Charlie Jeffery on becoming the new YU Chair, and I am very much looking forward to working with him.
"Charlie’s background, alongside his expertise and visionary strategic leadership, align perfectly with the core mission of YU. His commitment to forging partnerships in the pursuit of achieving common goals is one of the key ingredients that will make our region successful."
The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.
Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.
Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.