BARONESS Amos, the current director of The School of Oriental and African Studies at University of London, has been appointed the new Master of University College in Oxford.

She will take up the post on August 1, 2020, following Sir Ivor Crewe’s retirement after 12 years in the role.

Baroness Amos will be the first woman Master of University College and the first black head of an Oxford college.

Before she starts her new role, she will step down from her position at SOAS.

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Baroness Amos was made a Companion of Honour in 2016, for her services to the United Nations and emergency relief in conflict areas. 

Her career has also included serving as international development secretary, and as leader of the House of Lords from 2003-2007.

She said: "I am honoured to have been appointed as Master of University College Oxford.

"I look forward to taking up my role next year and joining a community which prides itself on providing an outstanding scholarly environment, excellent teaching and world-class research."

The baroness has been a Labour life peer since 1997, and has played a key role in tackling workplace discrimination and enabling international emergency relief efforts. 

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Professor Peter Jezzard, Vice-Master of University College, said: "The College was fortunate in attracting a number of outstanding applicants to become its next Master to follow Sir Ivor Crewe in his distinguished tenure in the role.

"The governing body is excited that Baroness Amos agreed to accept our invitation to take on the role from next summer, and we very much look forward to welcoming her to the college and to working with her in the future.

"She brings a wealth and diversity of experience to the role, including a deep knowledge of the higher education sector, and will help us continue Univ’s outstanding reputation for excellence, access and innovation in Oxford."