BNU announces new University Council appointments
Buckinghamshire New University is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Philippe B. Wilson and Jeff Williams as new Independent Members of University Council, effective from 1 August 2026.
Professor Wilson is a senior academic and executive leader with extensive experience in higher education governance, innovation, knowledge exchange, and research-led enterprise. Philippe currently serves as Executive Chair of HH Global Holdings Ltd and President of the Comparative Medicine Council at the Royal Society of Medicine. His previous roles include Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange and Professor of One Health at York St John University, where he led institutional strategy for knowledge exchange. He has also held senior positions at Nottingham Trent University, developing impactful partnerships across academia, industry, De Montfort University and the NHS.
Mr Williams is a highly experienced founder and executive leader with deep expertise in the UK higher education sector, particularly in international student recruitment, admissions, compliance, and technology-enabled transformation. Jeff is the co-founder and former CEO of Enroly, a pioneering platform supporting international student recruitment and compliance. He now serves as a Non-Executive Director at Enroly, continuing to support governance and long-term strategy. His earlier career includes senior leadership roles at Navitas and the University of Bolton, where he led international growth and operational development.
Both Philippe and Jeff bring significant board-level experience and a strong track record of working within complex, regulated environments. Their combined expertise spans governance, innovation, internationalisation, enterprise, and strategic growth.
Commenting on their appointments, Professor Wilson said: “I am delighted to be joining Buckinghamshire New University at such an important time in its development. Universities play a vital role in driving innovation, widening participation, and delivering meaningful impact for their communities. I look forward to contributing to the University’s strategic direction and supporting its ambitions in knowledge exchange and student success.”
Mr Williams added: “I am delighted to join Buckinghamshire New University as an Independent Member of Council. The University’s focus on student experience and public purpose strongly resonates with me. I look forward to supporting its strategic ambitions, particularly in navigating complexity, supporting high quality international activity, and delivering sustainable, well-governed growth.”
Maggie Galliers CBE, Chair of Council, who led the robust recruitment process to appoint two new Council members, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Philippe and Jeff to our University Council following a highly competitive process. Their breadth of experience across higher education, industry, and governance will bring valuable insight to our discussions and decision-making. Their commitment to innovation, widening participation, and enhancing the student experience aligns strongly with the University’s mission.”
Professor Damien Page, Vice Chancellor of Buckinghamshire New University, added: “These appointments further strengthen the depth of expertise on our Council. Professor Wilson’s leadership in knowledge exchange and enterprise, alongside Jeffrey’s experience in international higher education and digital transformation, will be of great benefit as we continue to grow our academic portfolio and external engagement. I look forward to working closely with them as we deliver on our strategic priorities: teaching and learning excellence; personalisation and flexibility; and careers-linked learning.”