Headshot of Dr Heather Melville

Doctor of the University

A highly experienced leader who has made a significant contribution to equality, diversity and inclusion in business.

Heather Melville is a Senior Managing Director with Teneo's People Advisory team in London and leads the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Practice.

With a career spanning over 40 years, Heather has a wealth of experience across corporate and international banking, technology, and most recently in professional services.

She is well positioned to advise leaders on both the challenges and opportunities in building commercially strong and inclusive businesses. 

She has a proven track record of helping companies attract, develop and retain the very best talent, while ensuring they create inclusive cultures that nurture innovation.

In 2017, Heather was awarded an OBE for her work, as well as an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Portsmouth, recognising her influence and impact on diversity in business.

In 2021, Heather received the prestigious President’s Medal for leadership from the British Academy of Management. 

She holds a number of trustee positions and is Chair of CMI Women, NED and Enfield Enterprise. Heather is also a Patron of Women in Banking and Finance, and a member of the Executive Leadership Council (ELC), a global network of C-Suite leaders.

As Chancellor of the University of York, Heather helps them drive inclusion across the university, to attract more diverse students, and to collaborate with business leaders to build more inclusive businesses.