After a national search, McMaster is appointing Helen Ayre as its next University Secretary. Ayre has been in the role of acting secretary for the past year and has held various positions in the secretariat since 1979.

“This is an outstanding appointment for McMaster,” says President Patrick Deane. “Helen’s deep knowledge of McMaster, her remarkable understanding of university governance, and her impressive skills and abilities are well-suited for this important role.”

Ayre arrived at McMaster from her native Ireland in 1979, holding positions as secretariat assistant, records manager, and freedom of information and protection of privacy coordinator. Since 2012, she has served as acting university secretary following the retirement of Bruce Frank.

As secretary to the Board of Governors and Senate, Ayre will be responsible for providing advice about policies and procedures to University leaders. The office also provides legal and administrative support for all meetings and activities of the Board and Senate and is responsible for the administration of McMaster’s internal judicial affairs protocols and procedures. The Secretary is also the University’s Freedom of Information Officer.

“I am honoured to be appointed University Secretary,” Ayre says. “McMaster is among the world’s best universities and I look forward to working with the exceptional team in the secretariat and with colleagues across campus to ensure our processes, procedures and governance structures help the University achieve its mission and meet its mandate.”

Ayre’s appointment takes effect July 1.