Hallam Students’ Union today announces a new CEO, Kathryn Burkitt, an accomplished leader, strategist and fundraiser, who will take over in August 2025 from Julie Byrd who retires having overseen a major transformation of HSU in her eight-year tenure.

This marks the culmination of a successful career in students’ unions for Julie Byrd, and Kathryn Burkitt will join the organisation to build on the vision of a modern, progressive and innovative students’ union that Julie has created.

During her tenure, Julie Byrd transformed the organisation into a data-driven students’ union, adept at meeting the needs of a diverse and complex student population. Her bold, sector-leading vision redefined how Hallam SU supports its students and offers a new path for other SUs to follow.

“Whilst looking forward to welcoming Kathryn, I must put on record the amazing achievements of our current CEO Julie Byrd, who is retiring after a successful career in higher education and public service. Without doubt, Julie is the embodiment of Hallam SU's values. Julie must take credit for leading the organisation through the most challenging of environments over the past 8 years. I consider it a privilege to have worked alongside Julie, as we continue our mission to provide the best possible experience for Hallam students.” - Laura Davies, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Hallam Students' Union

Martha Mitchell, President of Hallam SU says “I feel privileged to have worked with Julie and seen the bold vision she has set for what a progressive students’ union should be. Although my two-year tenure as an Officer finishes this summer, I’m confident Hallam SU is in experienced hands and will continue in the positive direction it has been travelling”

Kathryn Burkitt brings 15 years of experience in strategy, leadership and income generation. Whilst in post as Commercial Director for St Luke’s Hospice, Kathryn has overseen the commercial, fundraising and marketing teams and fundraised over £120m of income. She brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and regeneration and is the right person to continue the journey for Hallam SU. We hope the students’ union community will welcome her warmly and acknowledge Hallam SU’s continued goal of delivering successful student support in challenging times.

Kathryn expressed enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I’m overjoyed to have been offered the role of CEO at Hallam Students’ Union. I’m looking forward to joining HSU at such an exciting time, building on Julie’s legacy and continuing to strengthen partnerships across the University and the region. I bring a wealth of knowledge for income generation which I hope will power the ambitions that Hallam SU have identified.”

For more information, please email hello@hallamstudentsunion.com.

Hallam Students’ Union is the official representative body for the 35,000 students attending Sheffield Hallam University. By placing themselves at the heart of the Hallam experience, they exist to give Hallam students an edge throughout their studies. This is achieved by fostering an inspiring and supportive Hallam community built on excellent representation, civic engagement, inclusive spaces, dedicated support, and expert advice.

Please visit the website to learn more hallamstudentsunion.com