Mr Paul Jeans BE, FIE Aust, FAICD, a fourth-generation Novocastrian with a leadership career in business spanning more than four decades, has been appointed the University of Newcastle's seventh Chancellor.

The current Chairman of Newcastle Port Corporation, Mr Jeans brings exceptional business, governance and finance experience to his new role.

Mr Jeans said he was honoured to be appointed Chancellor of the University of Newcastle and was looking forward to supporting the University as it builds its global leadership in education, research and innovation.

"The University of Newcastle is a world-class institution that delivers an outstanding education to more than 36,000 students every year. Its research strengths, particularly those in engineering and health, drive economic growth in our regions.  I am proud to be Chancellor of this great University that consistently ranks in the top three per cent of universities in the world," he said.

Schooled at Newcastle Boys High School, Mr Jeans completed a Bachelor of Engineering degree at the Newcastle University College at Tighes Hill, the antecedent institution to the University of Newcastle.

His professional background includes more than 40 years with BHP in a number of leadership roles, including Executive General Manager and CEO of its Ferrous Minerals business and three of its steel businesses. Over a 20 year period, he also served as a director of the University of Sydney's Warren Centre of Advanced Engineering, later being honoured with the title of Honorary Governor of the Warren Centre.

Mr Jeans has a remarkable record of service on the boards of a range of organisations including Fosters Brewing Group and Ausgrid. He was also President of the Australia Korea Business Council and a member of the Council of the University of Wollongong.

View the Chancellor's introductory video message here.