LSE’s Sixteenth Director to become President of Columbia University

Baroness Minouche Shafik, School’s sixteenth Director (recently renamed as President and Vice Chancellor), has confirmed that she will be stepping down in summer 2023 to take up a new position as President of Columbia University. She will leave LSE after a six year term and will take up her new appointment in July 2023.

Minouche Shafik, said: “It has been one of the greatest honours of my life to serve LSE, a passionate and dedicated community who inspire, support and learn from each other. I have often been told by people that LSE positively changed their lives and it certainly changed mine It is a community that values rigour, debate, a global perspective and the betterment of society. I look forward to continuing to see LSE thrive as a place that educates for global impact, delivers research for the world and develops as a School for everyone now, and in the future.”

Susan Liautaud, Chair of LSE Council, added: “On behalf of the School I want to sincerely thank Minouche for her exceptional leadership of LSE and her tireless work to strengthen the School. With a clear focus on supporting the LSE community, enhancing student experience and teaching, delivering research excellence and strengthening our place on the global stage Minouche is leaving LSE with a clear direction and she departs with our best wishes and deepest thanks.”

The process of choosing a successor to Baroness Shafik is now underway. LSE’s Council has instructed a specialist search firm and appointed a committee to oversee the work. The process of appointing an interim President and Vice Chancellor will commence immediately.