University Alliance (UA) has appointed a new Director of Communications, Elizabeth Somerville.
Elizabeth will join UA from Voice 21, a national charity which campaigns for improved oracy education in the UK. She will commence her new role at UA in early November 2025.
Elizabeth will play a key role in advocating for and raising the profile of University Alliance and its members within the sector, to government, and in the media. She will join at an important time for University Alliance as they prepare to launch their new ten-year strategy.
Elizabeth brings 18 years’ experience across external relations, with a strong track record in higher education communications. She began her career as an elected officer at the National Union of Students (NUS) before going on to manage media relations for Jisc. At the University of Bristol, she led social media and developed the institution’s communications and marketing content strategy. Most recently, as Head of Communications, Campaigns and Public Affairs at Voice 21, Elizabeth directed the public launch of the Oracy Education Commission and delivered the high-profile We Need to Talk campaign.
Elizabeth Somerville said:
“I am excited to be joining University Alliance as their new Director of Communications.
“It will be a real privilege to represent a forward-thinking group of universities known for their innovative, high-quality teaching, their strong partnerships with industry and their impactful applied research and innovation.
“At an important time for the higher education sector, I am looking forward to working with and advocating for UA’s members. Together, we will champion their strengths, amplify the voices of their staff and students, partners and local communities and deliver UA’s new ten-year strategy.”
Vanessa Wilson, CEO of University Alliance said:
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Somerville as our new Director of Communications.
With her extensive experience across communications, marketing, media, campaigns, and external affairs, Elizabeth will bring a wealth of expertise to the role. Elizabeth will work closely with our members and will serve as a passionate advocate for them during a pivotal time for the higher education sector.
As Director of Communications, Elizabeth will also play a key role in delivering University Alliance’s new ten-year strategy, which will be launched this Autumn.
We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth to the team, and we look forward to the energy, strategic insight, and leadership she will bring to the role.”
