Rachel Clacher CBE appointed new chancellor of Wrexham University

Date: August 27, 2026

Rachel Clacher CBE has been appointed as Wrexham University’s new Chancellor, succeeding Colin Jackson CBE.

Rachel Clacher CBE is one of Wales’s most respected entrepreneurs, philanthropists and civic leaders, and is best known as the co-founder of Moneypenny – the Wrexham‑based outsourced communications company, as well as the founder of the social‑mobility charity WeMindTheGap. She was awarded a CBE in 2019 for services to business and disadvantaged young people. She is also currently serving as Chair of the Wrexham City Board, helping to shape the city's long-term future and prosperity.

Ms Clacher will be formally installed as Chancellor later this year, where she will begin her role as the University's ceremonial head and ambassador, representing Wrexham University across Wales, the UK and internationally.

Ms Clacher said: “I was first approached about becoming Chancellor around a year ago. I had been made an Honorary Fellow of Wrexham University in 2024, which meant a great deal to me, but being asked to become Chancellor was completely unexpected. I was genuinely surprised and incredibly humbled!

“It wasn't a role I'd ever imagined for myself, but the more we talked about it, the more it felt like a wonderful opportunity to contribute to a university and a place that have both been important parts of my life.

“I believe enormously in what Wrexham University stands for. Social mobility has been at the heart of so much of my life and work. Through WeMindTheGap, I've seen how much talent and potential exists in people who haven't always had the opportunities or confidence to recognise it in themselves.

“I also love that the University is so rooted in its place. Wrexham has given me an enormous amount over the years, and this felt like another opportunity to give something back. I've always been fascinated by what happens when you connect worlds that don't naturally collide – education, business, charities, communities, government and young people themselves. The question I find myself asking again and again is: what could we do together that none of us could do alone? I'm excited to explore that with the University.

“Education can change the trajectory of a life. But so can somebody believing in you, opening a door or helping you see a possibility you couldn't see before. I am so excited about what a university genuinely committed to social mobility can achieve: helping people not just get through the door, but believe they belong there, thrive while they're there and leave believing in what is possible for them.”

Rachel Clacher with Professor Joe Yates when made an Honorary Fellow of Wrexham University in 2024

Professor Joe Yates, Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, added: “We’re delighted that Rachel has agreed to become our new Chancellor, and we’re grateful to our outgoing Chancellor Colin Jackson CBE for his hard work serving the University with distinction and dedication. Throughout his tenure, Colin has been an inspiring ambassador; championing our students, celebrating our achievements and helping to raise our profile nationally and internationally.

“Rachel’s appointment reflects Wrexham University's commitment to fostering strong connections between education, enterprise, innovation and community impact, which are central pillars of the University's vision and strategy.

“Rachel brings an exceptional track record of business success, social impact and place-based leadership to the Chancellor role as the University continues to deliver its ambitious Wrexham2030 strategy and strengthen its position as a world-leading modern civic university. We can’t wait to welcome her to our team.”

Leigh Griffin, Chair of the Board of Governors, said: "Rachel's appointment is a significant moment for Wrexham University. She combines world-class business leadership with an unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for others and improving communities.

"The Board is confident that Rachel will be a remarkable ambassador for our University, supporting our mission and helping us strengthen our civic impact and regional partnerships. We are equally grateful to Colin Jackson for his outstanding service and enduring contribution as Chancellor."