At the AGM I will be standing down as Chair after three years (out of a maximum of four) in the post. I have enjoyed the role immensely but having moved to Middlesex University just a few months ago I am now finding it hard to create the necessary time and energy to devote to the Consortium. It is also the case that this might be a good time for a change – we have focused in the past few years on building up the Support Team, addressing finance and governance issues; the Director’s Room has been launched, we have a new style annual conference, and (shortly) a new Strategic Plan ...  a good time for a new face ?

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Officers, colleagues on the Steering Group and the Support Team for their support, enthusiasm and hard work. As a result of their collective effort, plus all the contributions made by members of the Working Groups and Task Groups, the Consortium is in good shape and well placed to thrive despite the challenges facing the sector. I wish my successor all the best for the future, as s/he takes us forward towards our twentieth anniversary ...

Nick