First female Head takes the helm

Cardiff University’s School of Geography and Planning has welcomed Professor Gill Bristow as its new Head of School.

Gill becomes the first female Head of School in its 55-year history, succeeding Professor Paul Milbourne who steps down after eight successful years.

“We're a really strong School with significant expertise in matters concerning place-based development and sustainability, issues which are relevant to some of the most salient challenges of our time. I'm looking forward to working with colleagues, students, our alumni community and our partners to continue to progress and share our knowledge around these challenges.”

After completing her PhD in Economics at Cardiff Business School, Gill joined Cardiff University in 1995 as a lecturer in Economics before moving to the School of Geography and Planning as a Lecturer in Economic Geography in 2001. Her research interests include regional economic development, regional economic resilience, local and regional competitiveness, and regional policy.

Most recently, Gill has served as the Dean for Research and Innovation for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. This expansive brief involved supporting the development and implementation of both the University's research and innovation strategy, and the College's research agenda. In addition to this, Gill led the College’s preparations for the current REF (Research Excellence Framework) cycle and the development of the College’s research environment and culture.