The University of Buckingham welcomes Professor Lynette Ryals OBE, as new Vice-Chancellor
The University of Buckingham has welcomed Professor Lynette Ryals OBE as its new Vice-Chancellor.
Speaking as she begins her appointment, Professor Ryals said: "It is a privilege to join The University of Buckingham as their new Vice-Chancellor.
As I begin this role, I am excited to join a University with a proud history, a distinctive identity and a reputation for doing things differently. Buckingham has always been characterised by academic excellence and a willingness to innovate.
There are countless examples of how the University has genuinely changed lives, thanks to its inherently independent spirit and a focus on delivering an outstanding student experience.
Throughout my career, I have been passionate about the transformative power of education and the opportunities it creates for individuals, organisations, and society. That belief makes it a privilege to join Buckingham at such an important moment in our journey as we conclude our 50th anniversary year, and take our next steps.
What has already struck me is the commitment of our staff, the achievements of our students, the loyalty of our alumni, and the support of our partners. Together, these strengths give us the confidence, capability and momentum to realise our ambitions for the future.
Since my appointment as Vice-Chancellor was announced, I have been overwhelmed by the warm welcome I have received. I am committed to being a tireless ambassador for the University and for a community defined by purpose and a determination to make a positive difference.
Over the coming months, I look forward to collaborating with staff, students, alumni and supporters, celebrating our successes, and realising our ambitions as we write the next chapter of our story together."
Professor Lynette Ryals OBE joins The University of Buckingham from Cranfield University, where she served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor. She also previously held the role of Dean of Cranfield School of Management.
Her academic background is in sales and customer management. An alumna of Oxford University, where she gained a BA and MA, Professor Ryals subsequently completed an MBA in Buckingham with International Management Centres (Europe) and earned a PhD from Cranfield University.
Professor Ryals is a Fellow of the Society of Investment Professionals, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
In 2019, she was awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours for services to higher education.
Alongside her academic work, Professor Ryals serves as a Non-Executive Director of East West Rail and is a Trustee of The Stables, Milton Keynes, supporting its concerts, events, music education programmes and biennial International Festival. She is an enthusiast for live music of all kinds and attends as many gigs and concerts as she can.