Professor Dame Jane Francis elected as President of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Monday 3 June 2024, at the Royal Geographical Society’s Annual General Meeting, Professor Dame Jane Francis became President for a four-year term. She takes over as the Society’s figurehead and chair of its elected trustees from Nigel Clifford, former Deputy Chair of the Geospatial Commission, whose term as President concludes.

Throughout a formidable career, Jane has made significant contributions to government policy and international diplomacy, as well as to polar science by conducting pioneering research and leading expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. Current Chancellor of the University of Leeds, she was the recipient of the Society’s Patron’s Medal in 2022 for her contributions to earth and environmental sciences.

Commenting on her election, Jane said: “The Royal Geographical Society holds a unique position at the heart of geography, a discipline that is increasingly important as we look to solve the global challenges facing us all. I am honoured to be stepping into the role of President and helping the geographical community to develop and thrive.”