Professor Simone Buitendijk

Hello from the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simone Buitendijk

A message to all staff

Dear colleagues, 

I am excited to now call you my colleagues as I take up the role of Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds. I am truly honoured to be able to serve this amazing university. 

I know from the conversations I have already had that this is a remarkable, driven, talented community and I look forward to many more conversations with you in the months and years to come. 

Universities are strong change-makers; I believe we are the only networked community that can truly solve the global challenges. We will do this through cutting-edge research and by training the next generation of global citizens. All it needs is for us to put all our efforts together and become more collaborative and inclusive, both within universities but most importantly, between universities globally. 

The current coronavirus crisis has led to a long, difficult and very intensive period which continues for us, as for so many across our region, the country and the world. Through it, we have perhaps surprised ourselves, by adapting quickly to deliver a much more digital learning and working experience. I thank you for your patience, your hard work and your contribution through this time and to the recovery we now pursue. 

I look forward to continuing the great work already underway at Leeds right across our disciplines and activities. 

But first, I want to listen. To get to know you, your wishes and hopes for the future of the University of Leeds. Even if I can’t do it in person to begin with, I hope we will see each other on screen. I want to understand your drive and ambitions and share with you my vision for this amazing institution. I believe that, together, we can contribute to a better world. 

I recently returned from the Netherlands and so will be self-isolating and working at home, but in July I had the opportunity to explore campus and recorded a short video to say hello. I look forward to meeting you, as well as our students, alumni and the entire University of Leeds community. 

Best wishes
Simone
Professor Simone Buitendijk, Vice-Chancellor 

As Simone mentions, she’s looking forward to getting to know us and the local area. Do you have a question for Simone? Or any tips for destinations and attractions in the Leeds region? Send your questions or recommendations to us and we’ll select some to put to Simone later this month.