Academic Venue Solutions announces new Chair, board appointments and new members
19 December 2025
Academic Venue Solutions (AVS) is proud to announce a series of significant leadership and
membership developments, marking an exciting new chapter for the organisation following its highly successful Annual Conference and Awards.
Emma Woodcock Appointed Chair of the Board
AVS is delighted to confirm the appointment of Emma Woodcock as Chair of the Board of Directors, taking over from Clare Forster, who steps down after six years of exceptional leadership and will remain involved as Immediate Past Chair.
Emma has been a committed member of the AVS Board since 2017, bringing extensive experience in higher education venues, events, commercial strategy and partnership development. Her appointment reflects both continuity and ambition as AVS looks ahead to its next phase of growth.
Speaking about her new role, Emma said: “It’s an honour to step into the role of Chair at such a pivotal and positive time for AVS. Clare has led the organisation with passion, integrity and impact, and I’m excited to build on that strong foundation alongside our Board, members and partners.”
New Board Appointments Strengthen Sector Representation
AVS is also pleased to welcome Kyran Le Chevalier to the Board of Directors, alongside Gemma Hill from Manchester Metropolitan University. Both appointments bring valuable insight, fresh perspectives and deep sector expertise, further strengthening AVS’s governance and its ability to represent the diverse needs of academic venues across the UK.
Derby University Venues & University of Brighton Join the AVS Community
AVS is delighted to announce that Derby University Venues and the University of Brighton have joined the organisation as new members. Both venues offer unique and diverse spaces with excellent reputations for food and customer service. Both venues boast a strong portfolio of modern, flexible event spaces and a reputation for delivering high-quality conferences, meetings and events, AVS are delighted to these welcome additions to the AVS network.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With new leadership, strengthened governance, growing membership and continued momentum following a highly successful Annual Conference and Awards, 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptionally bright year for Academic Venue Solutions.
About Academic Venue Solutions (AVS)
Academic Venue Solutions is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to connecting event planners with exceptional academic venues across the UK. AVS supports its members through marketing, business development, industry insight and a strong professional community.
To find out more about Academic Venue Solutions, please visit: http://www.academicvenuesolutions.co.uk/
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