Louella Houldcroft will take up the role of Director of Communication and Advocacy, starting her role at the university on Monday 8 January 2024.

Louella joins us from Newcastle University where she is Director of Communications & Public Affairs. Overseeing the creation of the new directorate during a period of unprecedented change and intense scrutiny on the sector, she leads on all aspects of the Newcastle University’s strategic communications. She is Co-Chair of the Russell Group Directors of Communications Network.

After completing a degree in Biology at the University of York, she went on to train as a journalist and spent 10 years working in regional and national newspapers, winning national recognition for her expose of the contaminated blood scandal which affected thousands of haemophiliacs and their families.

Louella said: “Nottingham is a university with a great reputation for world-class research and outstanding teaching and support for students, and I feel really honoured to be joining the team to help build on the fantastic work they are already doing to promote the institution’s global reputation for excellence.

“I look forward to being able to meet everyone soon and becoming part of the university community and Nottingham’s exciting future.”

In taking up the role, Louella will develop a clear vision for strategic communications and driving advocacy in an increasingly complex and fluid external environment – across higher education and beyond.

This will include delivering a step-change in the university’s brand and reputation and ensuring that the strategy, people, processes and systems are in place to build on the university’s current activities whilst preparing the team for future opportunities and challenges.

A key part of the Director role is to drive real change and innovation in an increasingly important area for the University. There is a desire to significantly increase the university’s global brand and reputation through media coverage, public affairs and advocacy and digital and engagement activities and channels.

Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Helen Pennack said: “I am delighted that Louella will be joining External Relations in the new year.

“Her skills and experience will bring a new dimension to the work of our already-established Communications and Advocacy team, bringing new insights and direction. I look forward to seeing where she takes us.”