University of Suffolk in Ipswich confirms vice-chancellor

Professor Jenny Higham has taken over the role of vice-chancellor after Professor Helen Langton MBE retired from her role at the Ipswich Waterfront-based university.

Professor Helen Langton retired over the summer (Image: James Fletcher) Prof Higham was previously the vice-chancellor at St George's, University of London, bearing the title of the first female leader in its 290-year history when she joined in 2015.

Prof Higham said of her new role: “It is an exciting time to join the University of Suffolk - I am so delighted to be bringing my wealth of higher education experience to this rapidly progressing and ambitious university. 

Prof Higham has national responsibilities in the university sector, sitting on many different boards (Image: Lucy Taylor) "It is a terrific opportunity to work closely with staff, students and all its partners to continue this positive momentum.”

Prof Hingham specialises in a medical background and led St George’s University of London in its successful merger to create the new City St George’s.

She has previously chaired the Medical Schools Council and served as vice-dean for institutional affairs and director of education for the faculty of medicine at Imperial College London.

Whilst at Imperial, she worked closely with Nanyang Technological University to create a new medical school in Singapore.

Chair of the University of Suffolk board, Ian Ailles, said: “I am delighted to welcome Professor Higham to the University of Suffolk. Her sector knowledge and expertise will be a huge asset to the organisation as we continue to deliver our ambitious strategy for growth.”

The University of Suffolk is celebrating after ranking in the top 60 in the UK in the 2025 Complete University Guide - an increase of 68 places over the last three years.