Edge Hill University appoint new chief governance officer

Edge Hill University has appointed Dr Jo Wright as the new chief governance officer (CGO). 

Dr Wright brings more than 20 years’ experience in higher education administration and governance, gained across a diverse range of universities, including private sector providers. 

In her new position, Jo will sit in the university executive and serve as the senior professional lead for governance and strategic assurance. 

She said: “This is a really exciting time to be joining the Edge Hill community, with a new Vice-Chancellor and a new strategy under development to build on the University’s ongoing success. 

“Everyone working in higher education is transforming student lives for the better, and my approach will be to ensure governance and administration enables colleagues at Edge Hill to continue this positive impact through clear information and effective systems. 

“Edge Hill is clearly a very special place, important to its students, staff and region, and I am delighted to be joining such a fantastic team.” 

This pivotal role carries executive accountability for areas including business continuity, governance systems, risk management, safeguarding, health and safety, prevent duty, legal compliance, registry and student administration, and strategic assurance. 

Jo was university secretary at the University of Kent, having previously held senior roles including deputy chief operating officer at the University of Chester and academic registrar at the University of Wolverhampton. 

The scope of Jo's remit will continue to evolve as the university implements a new Strategic Plan for 2026-2031