New board directors appointed to university

The University of Suffolk has appointed four new independent members to join its Board of Directors.

The role of the Board is to support the strategic direction of the university, provide oversight of financial reporting, ensure proper and rigorous governance in high level decision-making and preserving academic integrity.  

The board is made up of representatives from within the university as well as from external organisations. Members bring commercial and professional experience and knowledge from a range of different industries and are well connected within the county. Each board member serves a term of three years.  

The independent non-executive directors joining the board this October are Helen Galbraith and Sharmila Sylvester, who will also serve on the Audit and Risk Committee; Sean Hickey, who will also serve on the Nominations Committee; and Kate Staples, who will also serve on the Nominations and Remuneration committees.

In addition, Angela Treagust has been appointed as an External Member of the Audit and Risk Committee.   

Ian Ailles, Chair of the University of Suffolk Board said: “I am delighted to welcome all new board and committee members to the University of Suffolk as we mark our 10th anniversary as an independent university and the launch of our new strategy.

“It is a challenging time for the higher education sector and having a strong board who can bring a wealth of experience and different perspectives to help steer and champion the organisation will support our growth as we continue to deliver an excellent learning experience for our students.” 

For more information about the University of Suffolk strategic plan 2026-31 and the full Board, please visit the webpage here.