Heather Knight has been appointed as Interim Chief Executive while recruitment progresses for a permanent postholder. She will step up from her current role as UKCISA’s Head of Advice and Training on 1 April 2026. Heather will be taking over from Anne Marie Graham who announced her decision to step down as Chief Executive in January.
Heather brings expertise in student immigration law, policy and international student welfare. She has spent nearly a decade at UKCISA, most recently as Head of Advice and Training, managing the organisation's analysis of legislation and guidance impacting international students, steering UKCISA's policy and advocacy work, and ensuring members have the clarity and support they need to support international students effectively via the organisation's advice and training services. She is registered with the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) to provide immigration advice.
Prior to joining UKCISA in 2016, Heather worked in Higher Education advising international students, their families and university staff on immigration and welfare, ensuring students had the best possible study experience in the UK. She has first-hand experience of living and working internationally, having studied at Chiang Mai University in Thailand, and worked in education in Thailand and Japan.
Welcoming Heather to the new position, Chair of the Trustee Board, Professor Koen Lamberts shared:
“We are pleased to announce that Heather will be stepping into the role of Interim Chief Executive from April. Heather brings a wealth of experience from her many years at UKCISA, and across the international education sector. Her understanding of student immigration, policy and international student welfare, combined with her proven leadership of our advice and training services, means she is well-placed to guide UKCISA through the months ahead.
The Board and I are grateful for her dedication and leadership, which will ensure that UKCISA continues to support its 395 members and international students during this important period.”
Heather shared:
"I'm delighted to be stepping into the role of Interim Chief Executive at such an important time for international students. I know first-hand the difference our work at UKCISA makes - to students, members and to the wider sector.
I'm proud to lead this brilliant team and to champion international students at a time when their voices need to be heard more than ever."
The Board and senior management team will continue to focus on ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of services for all UKCISA members, students and stakeholders.
For more information about UKCISA’s governance and staff team, visit our ‘About us’ page. To stay up to date with all the latest developments, sign up to our newsletters.
