Ben Ward

Ben Ward holds extensive experience in leadership roles within the education and nonprofit sectors. Currently serving as Vice Chair at Hopwood Hall College and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Manchester Literature Festival, Ben is also a Leadership Fellow with the Society of Leadership Fellows, appointed by St George’s House at Windsor Castle. Since March 2014, Ben has been the Chief Executive of the University of Manchester Students' Union and the Managing Director of Manchester Academy Venues, overseeing operations for multiple music venues. Prior experience includes leadership positions at the National Union of Students (NUS), where responsibilities encompassed developing the charitable arm, membership development, and supporting students’ unions. Ben’s educational background includes a Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School and a BA (Hons) in Politics and Economics from Loughborough University.