Dr Jenny Pyper steps down as Chair of University Council, with Chris Conway named as successor

Having joined Council in 2016, Jenny took up the role of Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Council on 1 July 2019, and during her tenure as Chair, she has overseen many major changes and developments in the University.

These included the appointment of Professor Paul Bartholomew as Vice Chancellor, navigating the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) and its impact on the University, staff and students, the opening of the new Belfast Campus (September 2022), the expansion of the Derry~Londonderry campus, the opening of the Graduate Entry Medical School (August 2021) and the graduation of the first cohort of doctors in summer 2025, the 175^th anniversary of the BSoA (2024) and the launch of Studio Ulster (June 2025).

Jenny has also seen progress with plans for the future growth of the University, including the redevelopment of Coleraine and regeneration plans through the City Deals that are impacting all campuses.

During her journey as Chair, the University has opened its doors to welcome Presidents, Kings, Princes and other distinguished guests to its locations and has celebrated Ulster University being named Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year 2024 (UK and Ireland).

Dr Pyper has played a pivotal role in shaping the Council and reviewing all of the governance processes – a key role of Council, during her tenure. Additionally, she has been a strong advocate for the University, representing Ulster University in numerous external civic roles and on various committees, including on the Committee of University Chairs (CUC) Executive Committee.

Furthermore, Jenny has been instrumental in supporting the implementation of the University Strategy, People, Place and Partnership, and, with her expertise in strategic development, change management and performance transformation, she has guided the University in realising its full potential, by overseeing the University’s Council and fostering an environment in which institutional objectives are achieved. Jenny has highlighted the value of the multi-campus model and the importance of working with stakeholders, business leaders and government to make sure that the benefits from the University are seen right across Northern Ireland.

Jenny describes how her attendance as Chair at the annual graduation ceremonies is one of the highlights of the role: witnessing the positive impact the achievement of their degree has made on our students and their families.

She has reflected on one of her proudest personal moments for both her and her family, when she was conferred with an honorary doctorate during a graduation ceremony in Coleraine (December 2022) for her public service, particularly for the exceptional contribution and leadership that she had demonstrated, as both Interim Head of the Civil Service and CEO of the Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland.

Dr Jenny Pyper, outgoing Chair of Council, said:

“It has been an absolute privilege to have served as a member and then as Chair of Council and to have represented Ulster University during the time when it has been on an incredible journey – from the challenges of the COVID pandemic, supporting and launching its new People, Place and Partnership strategy, through to the opening of the new Belfast campus, seeing the University pick up the award for THE University of the Year 2024, and all the fantastic achievements in between.“

I’d like to pay tribute to the Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew and the Senior Leadership team who have shown great tenacity in implementing a really ambitious university strategy, with the support of Council. I deeply appreciate and thank all of those who have served as members of Council, not just the current team but those who have gone before. I think it’s remarkable that so many people from all over Northern Ireland and from different sectors are willing to come together to give of their time and expertise with no remuneration to make sure that Ulster University is the best it can possibly be.

“While I am sad to be leaving, it’s time for someone new to take up the baton and I am delighted that Chris Conway is going to be the Council Chair going forward as I know Council will be in safe hands. I am confident that the University will go from strength to strength and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for this great University.”

Chris Conway is a proud alumnus of Ulster University, having graduated with a Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a Diploma in Industrial studies, and he then returned to the University to study for an MBA (Master of Business Administration) in the 1980s.

Chris joined the University Council on 1 March 2023.

Chris is an experienced chartered company director with over 20 years at senior executive level across diverse industries, including transport, materials, and technology. He has served as Group Chief Executive of Translink since September 2015, from which he recently announced his intention to step down.

Chris is a Chartered Company Director and Fellow Member of the Institute of Directors and Fellow Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers. He has served on numerous boards and was former Chair of Northern Ireland Co-operation Overseas (NI-CO), Young Enterprise NI and Business in the Community NI. He is also a Member of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) NI Council.

Chris is married with three grown up children and enjoys running and cycling.

On his appointment as new Chair of Council, Chris Conway, commented:

“The University has an impressive and forward-thinking Council that I have been working with for a number of years and also a dedicated and committed Senior Leadership Team. I am really looking forward to working with the team, working on the strategy going forward, to enhance the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of Northern Ireland.”

"I am proud to be an Ulster University alumnus, and I am looking forward to giving back as Chair, in recognition of the role the University has played in shaping my professional career.”

On Jenny’s stepping down as Chair, Chris added:

“Dr Jenny Pyper has been a tremendous Chair for Ulster University. She has shown real passion and commitment, and has been an incredible ambassador for the University. I would like to thank her for her contribution as Chair and wish her well for the future.”

Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice Chancellor of Ulster University, concluded:

"Throughout her tenure, Jenny has shown exceptional leadership and has played a pivotal role in enhancing the governance framework of Ulster University, ensuring that the University’s core mission has remained central to all strategic decisions.

"Jenny has been a powerful advocate for the University and has represented us on the local and international stage which has been invaluable.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jenny for her contributions and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.“As we transition into the next chapter, I am pleased to welcome Chris Conway as the incoming Chair of the University Council, effective from 1 January 2026.

“Chris is widely respected as a distinguished business leader across Northern Ireland, and his extensive expertise will be instrumental in guiding our governance and supporting the strategic vision of the University.

"We look forward to collaborating with Chris as we continue to focus on the future growth and direction of Ulster University."

For more information on Ulster University Council, its membership and terms of reference, visit www.ulster.ac.uk/about/ous/committeeservices/council