Higher Education Expert Joins University of Worcester as Independent Governor

Louis Coiffait, a Senior Policy Adviser in the Government's Open Innovation Team, has been appointed as an independent Governor at the University of Worcester.

Louis has enjoyed a successful career in the higher education industry. His career includes working with universities, publishers, university trade press outlet Wonkhe, think tank Reform, a union, the Higher Education Academy, the Teacher Training Agency, for an MP and a cabinet minister.

A school governor in East London since 2010, he said he had been seeking a university position and was delighted to be appointed at Worcester.

“I've been a school governor for over a decade here in East London, and chaired a students' union for three years,” he said. I've been looking for a university position as so much of my career has been in HE policy. It's a great way to give something back, to try and make a positive difference, and to develop yourself in the process. I've seen for myself how important such anchor institutions can be and look forward to joining the team.”

He added: “I'm looking forward to working with a diverse group of people in the other Governors and the senior team. I'm going to learn a lot, and hopefully be able to contribute too, for example around research impact, comms, and policy. Worcester's focus on inclusion, sustainability and health are the right priorities for society. Not just today, but in the foreseeable future too. I'm excited to be a part of it.”

In his role with the Government's Open Innovation Team, Louis helps to get expertise and evidence (primarily from academics) into policy-making on a wide range of policy areas. His recent projects include contributing to the Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy, and on how the education system can sustain long-term recovery from COVID-19. 

Louis is one of a number of new independent Governors appointed at the University of Worcester recently.

John Bateman, Chair of Governors, said: “At Worcester, we have been delighted to have received a very large number of applications from individuals, representing a wide cross section of society. This is particularly positive at a time when many organisations and institutions are finding it difficult to recruit volunteers to governance positions. As a result, we have been able to appoint a number of new Governors who will bring both a wealth of relevant experience and passion for education to the Board.”