A New Chapter: Welcoming Our New Chair, Helen Galbraith

Tell us a bit about who you are Helen and the day job beyond AHUA

My current role is as Senior Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at the University of Chester. Chester is a wonderful mix of old and new – although not obtaining University status until 2005, the University’s roots date back to 1839, when it was founded as the UK’s first purpose-built teacher training college. As a city, Chester is also a fabulous place to work and study – and where else could you see groups of schoolchildren regularly parading through the city dressed as Roman centurions! My role involves oversight of professional services alongside leadership of the student experience – a combination which constantly reminds me of the importance of listening to the people we serve, and ensuring services are responsive to changing user needs.

You have been an AHUA member since 2016, can you tell us a bit about what you value as a member of our community?

For me, the best thing about AHUA is the sense of community. This is certainly what AHUA has given me over many years – a network of peers who understand the pressures of our roles, who are generous with their insights, and who genuinely want to see each other succeed.

Before standing for the position of Chair you had served the executive team as Honorary Treasurer. What inspired you to take on the challenge of leading as the new Chair?

I have been involved with the AHUA executive in one form or another since 2019, when I offered to host an Autumn conference at Keele and was then subsequently elected as a board member. AHUA has given me so much – including a great regional network, a valuable action learning set and many friends and mentors. I’ve watched AHUA evolve into a more confident organisation – one that not only supports its members but also influences national policy and practice.

I stood for Chair because I believe I can give something back, and because I believe strongly in what AHUA members can achieve together. Our sector is facing such significant challenges, but also real opportunities to rethink how we lead. AHUA can be a vital part of that conversation, and I would be proud to facilitate that.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Chair?

I am looking forward to the prospect of some creative conversations – with AHUA members and other leaders from across our sector. There is something so energising about bringing people together to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and think differently about the future. I am particularly keen to create space for voices that aren’t always heard – whether that’s newer members, colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds, those working in smaller and specialist institutions and members from all parts of the UK. AHUA has always been a place for thoughtful leadership and critical reflection – and I’m looking forward to helping that culture thrive.

In your opinion, what is the most important way AHUA can support its members in the current higher education landscape?

Right now, I think the most important thing AHUA can do is to ensure members don’t feel alone. The pressures on senior leaders are intense – and often isolating. AHUA must be a space where people can speak candidly, share what’s really going on, and find both practical advice and moral support. Beyond that, I think we have a vital role to play in shaping the national conversation – making sure the voices of senior professional services leaders are heard in sector policy, regulation and strategy development.

If you didn’t work in a university (and we are glad you do!), what job would you do and why?

Well in childhood I really wanted to be a meteorologist, but when it came to finalising my UCAS form, in a ‘sliding doors moment’ I decided to switch environmental science for music. While studying at University, I’d imagined a career in orchestra management, but a temporary job offer from my hall warden at the University of Bristol started me on the path to educational administration. So perhaps if I’d stuck to my guns, I would be managing the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra by now!

What famous person that isn’t a University Registrar / COO / Secretary would make a fantastic head of university administration and AHUA member and why?

When I’m not working, I love escaping into the hills – the Peak District or the Scottish Highlands – or trying my hand at indoor climbing, inspired by my son who is far better than me! So linked to that, I would pick Leo Houlding, one of Britain’s leading climbers and adventurers, known for tackling some of the world’s most remote and demanding peaks. He has an exceptional ability to lead teams through major challenges with trust, adaptability and a calm, strategic mindset. He knows how to plan meticulously, respond to the unexpected, and bring people with him – all qualities that resonate deeply with the realities of university leadership today. I really admire his blend of bold vision and practical teamwork – it’s a reminder that great leadership isn’t about going it alone, but about navigating complexity together with clarity and care.

“I will be honoured to serve as AHUA chair – ensuring that AHUA remains a trusted space where we learn from each other, lead with integrity, and shape a stronger, more inclusive sector for the future.”

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Helen Galbraith will officially begin her term as AHUA Chair in April 2026, following the successful six-year tenure of Nicola Owen. We look forward to her leadership and vision for the sector. Should members have any inquiries for the AHUA executive, please direct them to info@ahua.ac.uk. Press inquiries can also be submitted to this address.

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