Prominent new Chair for Anglia Ruskin Board

Press release issued: 13 August 2007



Anglia Ruskin University has appointed Kate Barker as Chair of its Board of Governors.

Ms Barker is a notable economic expert within the UK. Since 2001, she has been a member of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, responsible for setting interest rates each month in order to keep inflation on track to meet the Government's target. In the recent past, she has conducted two significant independent reviews on UK housing supply and on land-use planning, both of which have had a major impact on public policy.

She is also a Board member at the Housing Corporation, with particular responsibility for the East of England.

Ms Barker's previous career includes a period as Chief European Economist at Ford of Europe in Brentwood, and a lobbying role on behalf of business as Chief Economic Adviser at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). She took a BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics at St Hilda's College, Oxford.

An existing member of the Board, Ms Barker was selected to take over from Colin Day who has just stepped down from the role after 5 years in the post. She was selected to take over the top job on the Board for her 'drive and enthusiasm' for helping to move forward the continuing change and development agenda at Anglia Ruskin University.

Delighted with this new appointment, Vice Chancellor Professor Michael Thorne commented:

"Kate has the energy and vision needed to lead the Board. Over the past few years, and despite her heavy workload, she has shown great commitment and dedication to the task of helping with the strategic development of Anglia Ruskin University. We do consider ourselves very fortunate that she has accepted the challenge to help take Anglia Ruskin University to its next level."

Speaking about her new role, Ms Barker said:

"I am confident that I can help to build a clear future for Anglia Ruskin University which continues to grow in strength both academically and in terms of its physical presence within the East of England. Our time and resources will be focused on expanding our research and development activities, while securing extra ties with businesses from the region, and, of course, continuing to provide an exceptional learning experience for our students."

Kate lives in Essex with her husband and two teenage sons, where her local recreation is bell-ringing.
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