Professor Hughes will succeed the current Chair, Marian Wyn Jones, who announced earlier this year her intention to step down at the end of November.
One of Wales' most respected higher education leaders, Professor Hughes brings extensive experience of university leadership, governance and public service. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has led major institutional transformation and merger programmes across the higher education sector, most notably as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and in leadership roles across the University of Wales Lampeter and Swansea Metropolitan University.
A graduate of the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, and of Jesus College, Oxford University. He is an Honorary Fellow of Harris Manchester College, Oxford and served as a Supernumerary Fellow of Jesus College, Oxford. During his career, he has played a prominent role in shaping education, language and cultural policy in Wales and beyond, serving on numerous national and international bodies, including UNESCO, the European Commission, the Council of Europe and the Welsh Government.
Alongside his academic leadership, he has chaired and served on a wide range of organisations across education, health, culture and civic life, including Llais - the Citizen Voice Body for Health and Social Care Wales, the Representative Body of the Church in Wales and Welsh National Opera. His contribution to public life was recognised with the award of a CBE in 2023.
Commenting on his appointment, Professor Medwin Hughes said, “It is a great honour to be asked to serve as Chair of the University Council. I very much look forward to working with the Vice Chancellor and my fellow members of Council and colleagues across the University to support the institution’s ongoing development. Wales can be proud of Prifysgol Bangor and of its distinguished academic and research tradition. I look forward to serving the University in the years to come.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Edmund Burke said, "I am delighted to welcome Professor Medwin Hughes as Chair of Council. His exceptional experience of university leadership, governance and public service, combined with his deep understanding of Wales and its higher education sector, will be a tremendous asset to Bangor University. I look forward to working closely with Medwin. His commitment to education, culture and civic engagement aligns strongly with the University's values and mission.
I would also like to thank Marian Wyn Jones for her outstanding service and commitment. Her leadership has helped steer Bangor University through a period of change for both the University and the wider higher education sector. Marian’s dedication and unwavering commitment have made an invaluable contribution to the institution and its community."
Reflecting on her time as Chair, Marian Wyn Jones said, "Universities are special places and 'the College on the Hill' is especially so. It is a place where innovation, challenge and opportunity come together, and working with Bangor University has been an absolute privilege. I am proud to have played a part in the University’s journey during a period of unprecedented challenge and change across the HE sector. Being awarded University of the Year for Sustainability and Welsh University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027 reflects the dedication and talent of colleagues across the University, and a clear focus on delivering an excellent student experience, high-quality education and strong graduate outcomes. It has been a privilege to serve an institution that makes such a positive difference to so many lives.
"I am delighted that Professor Medwin Hughes will be succeeding me and wish him every success as he leads Council through the next chapter of the University's history."
