Advance HE has announced the appointment of Alistair Jarvis CBE as its new Chief Executive, following a highly competitive selection process. He will take up his appointment in early August 2025.
With extensive leadership experience in the higher education sector, Alistair joins Advance HE from the University of London, where he has served as Pro-Vice Chancellor of Partnerships and Governance for the past three years. His career includes nine years at Universities UK (UUK), where he rose to become Chief Executive, following roles as Deputy Chief Executive and Director of External Relations. His tenure as CEO of UUK included navigating the implications of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic on the university sector and the organisation.
The Chair of Advance HE’s Board, Professor Mark E Smith, Vice Chancellor of the University of Southampton, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alistair to Advance HE. His exceptional sector experience gives him excellent insight into the challenges and needs of our members, both in the UK and internationally. Alistair’s track record of leadership and his comprehensive understanding of higher education governance make him ideally suited to guide Advance HE through its next phase of development.”
Professor Smith added: “We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the departing Chief Executive, Alison Johns, who has been hugely successful in launching Advance HE, developing its Strategy 2030, and significantly expanding its membership base in the UK and beyond. Her leadership has established a strong foundation upon which Alistair can now build.”
Alistair began his career in policy communications working both for a national campaign and in the private sector before joining the 1994 Group as Director of Communications in 2009. He subsequently served as a Director at the University of Birmingham for three years before joining Universities UK in 2013.
Commenting on his appointment, Alistair Jarvis, said,
“I am a passionate advocate for higher education and the value that it delivers for individuals, society and the economy. To be successful, higher education institutions need strong leadership, good governance, excellence in teaching and learning, and to build inclusive campuses. I am proud to be taking on the leadership of an organisation which supports and drive enhancement in each of these vital areas.”
He continued:
“Advance HE plays a crucial part in supporting institutions to deliver excellence, and I look forward to working with the talented team to further enhance our support in the areas that matter most to our members. The landscape of higher education both in the UK and internationally continues to evolve rapidly, and Advance HE’s work has never been more relevant. I am committed to ensuring that we provide the highest quality services, resources and solutions to support our members as they adapt and transform to meet challenges and seize opportunities.”
Alistair Jarvis will officially begin his role as Chief Executive of Advance HE in early August 2025.
