The Chancellor 

The Chancellor plays a key role in the life of the collegiate University. The person elected is the University’s formal and ceremonial head, and while they have no executive responsibilities, they will play a vital part in Cambridge’s public-facing activities, fundraising, and in providing advice to senior members of the University. 

The most significant commitment for the Chancellor is to be a champion and ambassador for Cambridge, and to advocate and support the University’s aims and strategic interests. Other important responsibilities include:

  • presiding at major ceremonial events, such as Honorary Degrees and admission to the Guild of Benefactors, and taking part in other high-profile occasions;
  • providing confidential advice and support to the Vice-Chancellor; and
  • acting as Visitor at several Cambridge Colleges (an external figure on whom the College can call for advice, or for decision in certain internal disputes). 

The responsibilities include duties of a fiduciary nature, requiring the person elected to act in the best interests of the University. The Chancellor is also a member of the Council, but by longstanding custom does not attend or play an active part in its decisions. 

The Chancellor is expected to be a distinguished individual who has a deep affinity with the University’s mission and values. The person elected should demonstrate a serious and committed interest in its affairs.   

Terms of office  

The Chancellor is elected by the Senate, which consists of all members of the Regent House and everyone who holds a Cambridge Master's degree (including the MA), Doctorate or Bachelor of Divinity degree. The appointment is for a non-renewable term of ten years 1. The Chancellor needs to be available to attend events on behalf of the University throughout the year, mostly in Cambridge.  

Nominations from a diverse range of backgrounds are warmly welcomed. Every nomination must be supported in writing by at least 50 members of the Senate, and by a declaration from the candidate accepting nomination. Further details on the nominating process will be published in February 2025. 

The role is not paid but the University will reimburse role-related travel and other expenses.  

1 Subject to Privy Council approval of a change in the University’s Statutes.