THE UNIVERSITY of Reading appointed a new Chancellor on Wednesday, May 18.
Paul Lindley OBE will be the eighth person to hold the position in the university’s 96-year history.
Mr Lindley takes over from the current Chancellor, William Waldegrave, Baron Waldegrave of the North Hill, who has held the position since 2016.
“I am honoured to be asked to become Chancellor of the University of Reading,” he said.
“The University, including Henley Business School, has a worldwide reputation for exceptional research, knowledge and expertise that offers solutions to so many of the world’s critical challenges.”
“I will seek to be an ambassador for this work, a guardian of the university’s values, a challenger to grasp its tremendous opportunities and a voice for its amazing diverse community.”
The university will celebrate its centenary in 2026, a landmark Mr Lindley is already looking to work towards and beyond.
“As the university approaches its 10th birthday, I am looking forward to working closely with everyone to ensure that its next century is built on a culture of belief that a better world is possible, and a confidence that equips its students, staff and alumni with the skills and vision to lead in delivering it,” he explained.
Mr Lindley is known as one of the country’s leading entrepreneurs, founding Ella’s Kitchen, the largest baby food company in the UK.
Mr Lindley currently chairs social equity initiatives such as the May of London’s Child Obesity Taskforce and Robert F Kennedy Human Rights UK, and sits on the board of the US media and education giant Sesame Workshop, creator of Sesame Street.
The University of Reading awarded Mr Lindley an honorary doctorate in 2013, and was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2019 for his contribution to the British food industry and entrepreneurship.
Outgoing Chancellor, Lord Waldegrave, was full of praise for his successor, saying: “In Paul, I think the university has made a really excellent appointment.”
“I wish Paul every success, and am sure he will help the University by bringing his trademark energy and enthusiasm to the office of Chancellor.”
“I have very much enjoyed my time in office as Chancellor of the University, particularly meeting students and families as they graduate with their degrees. The University is in a strong position to grow its vital work in the region, the UK and the world, and I will continue to follow the successes of its students, alumni and staff with great interest.”
