University of Chichester announces new COO appointment

The University of Chichester is delighted to announce the appointment of Olivia McLaughlin as its new Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary. In her role, Olivia will contribute to shaping the University’s strategy as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, and will lead on marketing and recruitment, governance, estates, IT, registry, and communications.  

Olivia is an experienced Higher Education leader with a strong track record of delivering strategic and operational excellence, transformational change, and service innovation across the sector. She is recognised for building high-performing teams, driving sustainable growth, and shaping ambitious strategies that put students and staff at the heart of decision-making. 

Alongside her professional career, Olivia serves on the boards of two ocean conservation charities, reflecting her deep commitment to sustainability and to linking education with wider societal and environmental impact. 

Olivia thanked the University for the warm welcome, adding: “I am delighted to be joining the University of Chichester. I greatly admire the University’s values and sense of community, and I look forward to working with colleagues to support our students and help shape the next phase of Chichester’s future.”