University of Bristol Vice-Chancellor Professor Evelyn Welch has been named as the new Chair of the Russell Group, taking over from current Chair, Professor Chris Day.
Professor Welch will take up the post in August 2026, becoming the tenth Chair of the Russell Group. She has been Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol since September 2022.
Commenting on the announcement, Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol, said: “It is an honour to be named as the tenth Chair of the Russell Group.
“I welcome the opportunity to work with this outstanding group of world-leading universities, and with other higher education mission groups, as we continue to advocate for the importance of universities to the UK’s success, nationally and globally.
"Russell Group universities make a huge difference to people’s lives every day. It is a privilege to chair a body whose members support our NHS, our businesses and entrepreneurs, our cities and our regions. I look forward to working with Universities UK and the many other organisations who represent the sector to ensure we not only tell our story but also deliver for the nation.
“I would like to thank the current Chair Professor Chris Day, his Deputy Chair, Professor Shearer West and the outgoing Chief Executive, Tim Bradshaw for their exceptional service. They have led the Russell Group through very challenging times and I look forward to working with the incoming Russell Group Chief Executive, Libby Hackett as she takes up her new role shortly.”
Dr Hollie Chandler, Acting Chief Executive of the Russell Group, said: “I am delighted to welcome Evelyn as incoming Chair of the Russell Group.
“Across the UK, Russell Group universities are turning groundbreaking research into jobs and skills, creating opportunity and supporting communities to thrive. I look forward to working with Evelyn to continue to champion the impact our universities make locally, nationally and globally.
“I would also like to express my thanks to Chris for his excellent leadership as Chair and for the strong voice he has given the Russell Group at a time of significant challenge and change for the sector.”
Outgoing Chair of the Russell Group, Professor Chris Day, said: “It has been a privilege to Chair the Russell Group and to champion the vital role our universities play in improving lives, driving innovation and supporting economic growth. I am pleased to welcome Evelyn as the next Chair and look forward to seeing the group continue to deliver real-world impact for communities across the UK and beyond through our collective world-leading research and education.”