Professor Susan Lea has extensive leadership experience across a broad range of universities. Her career spans research and teaching intensive universities, as well as those that play a key role in their region. Professor Lea joined the University of Hull in August 2017 and has led a major, successful programme of transformation as well as set a new strategy for the University which has environmental sustainability and social justice at its core. The University of Hull is an internationally-engaged civic university and Professor Lea contributes significantly to the city and region.  She is passionate about the role of universities in transforming lives and positively impacting society.

A psychologist by training, Professor Lea also has a particular interest in leadership and leadership development.  She has taught on the UK AdvanceHE Top Management Programme, gives talks on women and leadership, and mentors leaders in the higher education sector.