Jane Robinson

Jane joined Newcastle University in 2019. She leads the University’s Engagement & Place Strategy, focussing on building partnerships to enhance our contribution socially, economically and culturally. Previously, Jane was Durham University’s Chief Operating Officer with strategic oversight of operations and external engagement.

Before taking up her position at Durham, Jane was Chief Executive of Gateshead Council. Jane also played a leading role in the establishment of the North East Combined Authority and the Commission on Health and Social Care Integration. Jane has also held leadership positions in the cultural sector, including Director of External Relations at Arts Council England, where she led major corporate initiatives that included Local Government liaison, creative industries development and overseeing capital programmes.

Jane holds an MBA and Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in English Literature. She is also a Fellow of the RSA; Chair of Culture, Creativity and Education (an international charity which supports creative learning), Co-chair of the North East Cultural Partnership and holds non-executive positions with the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, Centre for Life, and the Tyne Community Learning Trust.