Chair

Dr. Matthias Ruth is Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of York. He holds a MSc in Economics from the University of Heidelberg, and a PhD in Geography from the University of Illinois, where he trained in engineering and biology. Professor Ruth spent over 30 years at universities in the USA and Canada, and served as Vice-President for Research and Innovation at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on natural resource use, industrial and infrastructure systems analysis, and environmental economics and policy. He has published 20 books and over 150 papers and book chapters in the scientific literature. He works globally with academic journals, organisations, scientists and policy makers.

Jenny is joint Executive Member for the Environment and Climate Emergency for CYC. Having studied Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford, Law at City University, London, and Dispute Resolution at the Centre for Conflict Resolution Santa Monica, she has worked as an Editor for McGraw Hill Energy Desk, Editor for a startup app tackling diabetes, a Barrister at 14 Gray’s Inn Square, London and Park Court Chambers, Leeds and taught in the York University Law Department.  For the last 6 years she worked with the Against Malaria Foundation, top rated Charity by Give Well Charity evaluator every year since 2009 and a leader in the Effective Altruism movement.

Alexander joined York Minster as Director of Works & Precinct from real estate provider Savills in 2017 as a Planning Team Director. Previously he work for over 10 years with the global finance network at Deloitte. He is a Chartered Planning and Development Surveyor with a career based in the heritage sector. His role at the Minster involves overseeing the restoration and conservation of the cathedral and its 56 precinct properties. He is developing a Neighbourhood Plan for this 8ha city estate, with sustainability at its heart. The plan’s implementation includes a new refectory, public park, and facilities associated with the new Centre of Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills & Estate Management.  

Ian has been Managing Director of First Bus operations in York since July 2021 (a role he combines with the same responsibility in Greater Manchester). He has spent 44 years in the bus industry, including early training in York, and brings valuable experience and insight to the importance of public transport in helping to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Over the past 25 years Ian has been involved in the evolution of public transport around the country, including the modernisation of bus networks to benefit customers and improving efficiency of public-funded services. He was involved in the launch of the original Yorkshire Coastliner brand and Vantage service in Manchester, which has seen a 25% switch from car use to bus travel. Ian’s work in Greater Manchester includes preparing for the first franchised bus network in regional England.