The handover marks more than just a change in address—it signals the beginning of a new phase for the AUG as it takes on a central role within the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board, leading the all-important Skills and Talent workstream.

“This is a hugely exciting moment,” said Alistair Lomax, Director of the Arc Universities Group. “We’re incredibly grateful to Cranfield University for giving the AUG such a strong start. Cranfield’s unique position at the heart of the Arc – and its deep connections with industry –  have shaped our work and approach in invaluable ways. And with Cranfield remaining a committed member, we’re looking forward to continuing that collaboration in new and dynamic ways.”

For Professor Dame Karen Holford DBE FREng, Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University – which continues to host the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board – the handover is a proud milestone:

“We’ve been proud to support and host the Arc Universities Group for the last six years. It’s fantastic to see the group now embedded in a national growth strategy, recognised by government and backed by a ministerial champion in Lord Vallance – who better to help deliver on the promise of innovation in the Oxford to Cambridge growth corridor?”Now hosted by ARU, the AUG is poised to build on this strong foundation by coordinating a region-wide effort to attract, develop and retain the high-level skills needed to drive long-term prosperity.

“We’re delighted to take on the hosting of AUG,” said Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice-Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University. “It aligns perfectly with the work we’re doing across the wider region – connecting Essex and East Anglia with the innovation clusters of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor. We’re committed to helping shape a skills agenda that supports inclusive growth and ensures communities across the Arc benefit from its success.”

Backed by legacy funding from East West Rail, the AUG’s Skills and Talent workstream brings together universities, employers, investors and policymakers around three key focus areas:

• Technological Innovation – led by Sarah Haywood, Managing Director, Advanced Oxford
• Environmental Sustainability – led by Professor Aled Jones, Director, Global Sustainability Institute at ARU
• Creative and Cultural Industries – led by Dr Steve Partridge, Dean of Creative Arts at the University of Hertfordshire

Each reflects a strategic growth area for the region—and a pressing challenge in terms of workforce capability.

With ARU now at the helm, the AUG enters its next chapter with renewed momentum and purpose, focused on building a globally competitive, locally rooted workforce ready to power one of the UK’s most innovation-driven economies.