The University of Bedfordshire has appointed Professor Deborah Johnston MBE as its new Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive.
Professor Johnston joins the University from London South Bank University, where she served as Deputy Vice Chancellor, and succeeds Professor Rebecca Bunting, who retired in December.
She said she was attracted by the University’s strong sense of purpose and commitment to helping students prepare for the world of work.
Read: Mayor tight-lipped as Bedfordshire takes centre stage in government’s Ox-Cam growth corridor plans
“I’m proud to join the University of Bedfordshire as its Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive,” she said.
“What’s already come through clearly is the strong sense of purpose here, and the commitment of staff to students in helping them prepare for success and the world of work.
“There’s also a real sense of community, with diversity and inclusion genuinely valued. There’s a lot to be proud of here and a strong foundation to build on. I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Life-changing opportunity
Professor Johnston said her appointment was particularly meaningful because of her own educational journey.
“This is personal for me,” she said.
“I was the first in my family to go to university, and it changed my life. Institutions like the University of Bedfordshire have a powerful role to play in making that difference.”
She grew up in Hounslow and was the first member of her dual-heritage Irish-Pakistani family to attend university.
Professor Johnston studied Economics at the University of Cambridge before completing an MPhil in the Economics and Politics of Development and later a PhD in Economics at SOAS University of London.
Academic background
A Professor of Development Economics, Professor Johnston has published more than 55 academic journal articles and four books.
Her research has focused on issues including poverty and inequality.
Before joining London South Bank University, she served as Pro-Director for Learning and Teaching at SOAS University of London.
At LSBU, she led a range of professional services supporting institutional growth, quality and strategic development across both the university and the wider LSBU Group, which includes further education colleges and academies.
Read: Polhill floodlit 3G pitch plans face renewed backlash from neighbours
Disability champion
Professor Johnston is also a national advocate for disabled students and accessibility in higher education.
She serves as the University’s Disability and Access Ambassador for the Cabinet Office and is a national leader for the Disabled Students Commitment.
In 2024, she was awarded an MBE for her work promoting recognition and support for people who stammer within higher education.
She also serves on the board of a national stammering charity.
Professor Johnston now takes up leadership of the University of Bedfordshire as it continues to expand its educational and research offer across the region.
