The University of Chester's vice-chancellor is set to represent the city on a global stage after securing a new leadership role.

Professor Eunice Simmons has been elected vice-chair of the Association of Commonwealth Universities Council (ACU), a network of university leaders from across the Commonwealth.

The ACU is the world's longest-established international university network, with a shared commitment to building a better world through collaboration in higher education.

As vice-chair, Professor Simmons will help support the ACU Council's work, including its Road to 2030 project, which focuses on strengthening higher education and sustainable development across the Commonwealth.

Professor Simmons said: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to support the ACU's important work in convening global expertise across its membership to address the shared challenges and opportunities that we face in Commonwealth higher education."

During her time as vice-chancellor of the University of Chester, Professor Simmons has introduced the citizen student strategy, which aims to help students develop skills beyond their academic studies.

She has also been involved in regional and national projects focused on skills and employability, and is a founding member of Defra's Expert Committee on Forest Science.

The ACU Council is made up of vice-chancellors from across the Commonwealth, who are nominated and elected by members of the organisation.

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Professor Simmons will serve as vice-chair for a three-year term until July 31, 2029.

Professor Colin Riordan CBE, chief executive of the ACU, added: "The ACU Council plays an essential role in ensuring that we can continue to make a difference to higher education across the Commonwealth.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact that our new Council members will make through their diverse experience, skills and cross-Commonwealth connections."