THE new Chancellor of the University of York has spoken of his hopes for the university and the challenges it will face in the future.

Sir Malcolm Grant, 57, will take over the role of Chancellor in August 2015 when he formally replaces the chairman of the FA and former Director-General of the BBC, Greg Dyke, who is stepping down.

The current chair of NHS England, Sir Malcolm was previously Vice Chancellor of UCL, chairman of the Russell Group and Pro Vice Chancellor of Cambridge.

He will act as a figurehead for the university and provide advice and support to Vice Chancellor Professor Koen Lamberts.

Sir Malcolm said he anticipates the next few years "are going to be difficult for all universities" as finances continue to be an issue and research funding may be less reliable in the future.

"It's going to be quite difficult and universities like York are going to have to exert themselves to continue high quality education," he said, adding, "The university's stock has risen quickly over the last ten or 15 years.

"It has the advantage of being in a beautiful city, it has a strong reputation, the last vice chancellor has invested a lot on campus. The present regime has a great opportunity in making the most of the investments to ensure the university gets the very best students."

Sir Malcolm said he has committed to an initial five years in the role.

Originally from New Zealand, Sir Malcolm moved to the UK in 1972. He is a father-of-three and grandfather-of-two.

The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties are to confer degrees on behalf of the University, and to chair the University's Court. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the Chancellor plays a key role in the University's life as an ambassador for the institution in the UK and internationally.

Greg Dyke has been chancellor of the university for the past decade. He was preceded by opera singer Dame Janet Baker who grew up in Acomb and went to York College for Girls.