University of Glouchester appoints three business leaders to its council

The University of Gloucestershire has appointed three new members to its council with the aim of improving the learning and teaching experience and establishing connections within the county.

Chartered accountants James Cooper and Ruth Dooley, along with Thomas Chambers, director of several public and private companies, join the University Council as external members.

James Cooper, a partner at Gate One management consultancy, specialises in higher education sector work.

As a qualified chartered accountant and former auditor, he brings experience in organisational transformation and change.

Ruth Dooley is a partner at Hazlewoods accountants, where she focuses on the growth of their forensic specialisation.

She is a chartered accountant with connections in Gloucestershire and has been part of the GFirst Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) for the past 12 years, including a term as Chair of its Board.

Thomas Chambers is a chartered accountant, an associate of the Association of Corporate Treasurers, a fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and an honorary doctor of the University of Surrey.

He serves as a director for various companies, including the listed venture capitalist trust Kings Arms Yard plc, UCAS, and the recruitment consultancy Propel London

Nicola de Iongh, chair of the council at the university, said: “‘I am delighted that James, Ruth, and Thomas have agreed to join the council. They are fantastically talented and bring a wealth of experience that I know will be of immense value as we navigate the difficult operating context for the Higher Education sector and look to provide our students with a high-quality learning experience that enables them to enjoy rewarding and successful careers.”