Wendy Thomson

Professor Wendy Thomson CBE is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, appointed in 2019. She is an international expert in public service governance and reform, with a distinguished career spanning government, academia, and policy advisory roles in Canada, the UK, and globally.

• Education: PhD in Social Administration from the University of Bristol.

Research Interests focus on public service reform, child welfare, and healthcare policy. Her work bridges academic rigor with practical implementation, influencing governance structures and social policy frameworks internationally.

Scientific Awards include:

• 2005 CBE for contributions to public service reform.
• 2014 YWCA Women of the Year Award.

Leadership and Advisory Roles encompass directing the Office of Public Service Reform (UK Cabinet Office), leading commissions for Ontario and Quebec governments, and advising UNDP and OECD missions. She also chaired the Social Market Foundation and serves on boards including the Association of Commonwealth Universities and Coursera's University Advisory Board.