Sharanjit Leyl was officially installed as Chancellor of Bath Spa University on 8 May 2024.

The first female Chancellor of Bath Spa University, and only the second Chancellor in the institution’s almost 20-year history, Sharanjit acts as an ambassador for the University on a local, national, and global stage.

A former BBC World News anchor, as well as a leading business and politics reporter, Sharanjit’s career took her all over the world for almost 25 years, bringing a global perspective to her work. She now regularly moderates high-level debates for the United Nations and multilateral and financial institutions. She also advises companies and educational institutions on media strategy and diversity.

"I hope very much to help Bath Spa University go global, build crucial links with universities in Asia and elsewhere in the world and continue to strengthen our connections with local and national communities, culture, and enterprise. I don’t doubt I will continue to learn from BSU’s wonderful staff and inspiring student community."

Sharanjit Leyl, Chancellor

Now living between Bath and her native Singapore, Sharanjit is a Trustee for the Bath Fashion Museum, a Board member at the Holburne Museum and is delighted to be part of the Bath Spa University community representing the values of students and staff worldwide.

Educated in North America, with an undergraduate degree in Journalism and a Master’s in English, Sharanjit understands what a privilege it is to study, have an education and to be curious about the world in which we live.

Person in academic robes giving a speech on stage

"My father’s story isn’t a far cry from many of the students at Bath Spa University. Over 40% of the BSU student population are among the first in their family to go to university, just like my father did.

About a quarter of our students are from ethnic minorities like me and many more are working their way through university, just like my father did,  holding down one or more jobs so they can afford to have an education.

I’m inspired by the students here at BSU and so proud to represent them as they truly embody the spirit of Bath Spa University - the Sunday Times University of the Year for Social Inclusion." 

Sharanjit Leyl, Chancellor

What does it mean to be a university Chancellor?

Appointed by Bath Spa University’s Board of Governors, the individual is chosen based on their alignment with the University’s values and purpose. The Chancellor is an unpaid, advisory role and does not have the power to make University decisions.

Bath Spa University is only one of twelve UK Universities which has both a female Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor.

Contact the Chancellor

Email: chancelry@bathspa.ac.uk