Francis Petersen was appointed as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria from 1 October 2024 and is responsible for the management and administration of the University. Professor Petersen has a distinguished record of academic leadership and a wealth of experience in higher education, with a diverse background in engineering, finance, and academic management. He has just been reelected to a second terms as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Universities South Africa (USAf)