Prominent business leader Carol Shanahan has been appointed as Keele University’s new Chancellor, becoming the first woman to hold the role in more than 40 years.
The Port Vale Football Club chairperson and co-founder of technology firm Synectics Solutions succeeds Lord James Timpson OBE, who stepped down after being appointed Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending.
Carol, who received an honorary degree from Keele in 2022 for services to the community, becomes the sixth person to serve as Chancellor, which is the university’s most senior honorary position.
Speaking after the announcement this morning, she said: “I’ve long admired the important role Keele University plays across the region and beyond, and its commitment to creating positive social impact and widening opportunity closely reflects the values that have guided my own work over many years.
“Academic rigour, leadership and guidance are vital if we want to drive meaningful social change, and universities like Keele have a crucial role to play in helping tackle some of the major challenges facing society.
“I spoke to the previous Chancellor, Lord Timpson, and told him he had left very big boots to fill, but I’m incredibly excited to get started. I look forward to encouraging and celebrating the achievements of our students – the next generation of leaders and changemakers – and to supporting the university in every way I can.”
Carol is widely recognised for her contribution to regional regeneration, education and social mobility, particularly in Staffordshire and the wider West Midlands.
Under her leadership, Stoke-on-Trent-based Synectics Solutions grew into an internationally respected data analytics and financial crime prevention business, while she is also credited with putting Port Vale on a better footing since becoming chair in 2019.
She also founded The Hubb Foundation, which supports children and families during school holidays.
Her work has earned recognition including an OBE in 2020 for services to the community of Stoke-on-Trent and, in 2025, the Freedom of Stoke-on-Trent.
Welcoming the appointment, Keele University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kevin Shakesheff, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Carol to the University. Her career exemplifies values strongly aligned with Keele University’s mission – access to education, social justice, civic responsibility, sustainability and partnership with local communities.
“Her blend of entrepreneurial success, leadership experience and deep regional commitment make her a highly credible and respected ambassador for the University, and I am sure she will be a source of great inspiration and a fantastic role model to our students, staff and alumni alike.”
Carol is the first women to be appointed since Keele’s inaugural Chancellor, HRH The Princess Margaret, who held the position from 1962 to 1986.
Congratulations on your appointment Carol, very well deserved. It seems a very long time since we did that radio debate from Tunstall market.