Born and educated in Wales, Sir Deian graduated in history at Aberystwyth where he gained his PhD. In a 44-year career, working in six universities, he retired as Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of London South Bank University. Following his inquiry into the Student Loans Company he was appointed its interim Chairman. He served as President of the National Library of Wales until 2016 and is currently Expert Adviser to the First Minister of Wales, Chair of Wales Remembers 1914-18 and a member of the UK Centenary Board. He is a trustee of the Council for Academics at Risk (CARA), the Campaign for Learning and the Worshipful Company of Educators Trust, serves on the City and Guilds Council, is a judge of the bi-annual Times Higher Awards and an assessor for the Queen’s Anniversary Prize.

 

A Freeman of the City of London and Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the RSA he has received honorary degrees and fellowships from professional bodies and universities including London, McGill (Canada) and the Open University. Knighted for services to higher education and to skills in the UK in 2009 he served for six years on the Cabinet Office Education Honours Committee until 2017.