Why it matters: The appointment marks a significant transition as the university prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary next year, with a local figure taking the helm to guide its future growth.
The Classic FM presenter and former BBC newsreader will succeed Dr Helen Pankhurst CBE, the great-granddaughter of suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, who is stepping down after serving seven years as the university's first Chancellor.
Soanes, who was born and brought up in Suffolk, will take over the ceremonial role at the university's graduation ceremony next month. He was awarded an honorary degree by the institution in 2023 and has co-led the community project to create and install a statue of Benjamin Britten as a boy on the seafront opposite the composer's birthplace in Lowestoft.
What they're saying: "It is a profound honour to be appointed Chancellor of the University of Suffolk," Mr Soanes said. "I look forward to furthering Helen's passion and commitment and strengthening the ties between the University and the wider community of Suffolk, the county that has been home to generations of my family and is a very special part of who I am."
"Above all, I'm excited to help nurture and encourage an exciting second decade of our students as they set out to shape their futures."
Dr Pankhurst reflected on her tenure with pride: "It has been an honour and privilege to serve as the University's first Chancellor and see the opportunities provided for thousands of young people and mature students from Suffolk, East Anglia and beyond."
The bigger picture: Mr Soanes brings extensive broadcasting experience to the role, having spent 25 years at the BBC as a newsreader and the voice of the Shipping Forecast on BBC Radio 4. He now hosts Relaxing Evenings on Classic FM and performs live concerts with the UK's leading orchestras.
Beyond broadcasting, he has created the best-selling children's book series Gaspard the Fox, with two adventures conceived as narrated concert works performed by major orchestras, including the Hallé and Philharmonia.
For context: Soanes received the 2024 Betjeman Society Award for his contribution to understanding Sir John Betjeman's work, producing a live 50th anniversary tour of the poet's album Banana Blush. He actively supports young musicians as a patron of Young Sounds UK and English Symphony Orchestra Youth.
Vice-chancellor Professor Jenny Higham said: "We are grateful to Helen for the tremendous support she has given to the university and our students as our reach and reputation have grown. I am excited to welcome Zeb and to work with him to promote both the university and the county of Suffolk as we enter our tenth anniversary year."
The bottom line: The appointment of a Suffolk-born chancellor with deep community connections positions the university to strengthen its local roots while supporting student success as it enters its second decade of operation.
