Find out more about the people who lead the University, and the history of the positions they hold. The Chancellor The Chancellor confers degrees and enhances the profile and reputation of the University on national and global levels. The Principal The Principal is responsible for the overall operation of the University. As Vice-Chancellor he confers degrees on behalf of the Chancellor. The Senior Lay Member The Senior Lay Member’s role is similar to that of Chair of the institution and is responsible for the overall leadership of University Court, the University’s governing body. The Rector The primary role of the Rector is to preside at University Court, the University’s governing body. The University Secretary The University Secretary is Secretary to the University Court, the University’s governing body, and has overall responsibility for a range of central professional services. This article was published on Thursday 20 August 2026