University of Sheffield announces alumnus Andy Haldane as new Chancellor

A highly respected British economist, who worked at the Bank of England between 1989 and 2021, has been announced as the new Chancellor of the University of Sheffield.

Andy Haldane (BA Accounting & Financial Management and Economics 1988, Hon LittD 2018), will begin the role in November, taking over from Dame Anne Rafferty (LLB Law 1971, Hon LLD 2005), who has been in post since 2015. He will become the ceremonial head of the University, with the responsibility to confer degrees and other academic awards, as well as advocate on behalf of the institution.

He also holds the role of Chair of the University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre’s (AMRC) Industrial Board. His wealth of experience is helping to shape and set the strategy for the AMRC, which is key for innovating UK manufacturing and helping the sector grow.

Mr Haldane said: “I am thrilled and honoured to become the next Chancellor of the University
of Sheffield, my alma mater. The University is one of the jewels in the crown, not just of the
city but of the whole country. I look forward to supporting and celebrating its continuing success and growing its international profile.”

Andy’s contributions to economics extend beyond his work at the Bank of England. In September 2021, he became the Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), a charity with a 250-year history of social impact through innovation and civic participation for the arts, manufacturers and commerce. He also served as the Permanent Secretary for Levelling Up at the Cabinet Office from September 2021 to March 2022 and is the founder of Pro Bono Economics, a charity that provides economic expertise to the social sector, as well as serving as Vice-Chair of the charity National Numeracy. He holds honorary professorships at several top universities and has authored around 200 articles and four books, contributing significantly to the fields of financial stability and economic policy.

Professor Koen Lamberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said:“Andy’s exceptional career spanning academia, public service, and economics, and his long standing connection to the University, makes him an ideal fit for this prestigious role. His deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, combined with his commitment to social impact, will be invaluable. 

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank Dame Anne Rafferty, who has been an exceptional Chancellor to the University for the last 10 years. We are truly grateful for her service and support.”