Liam Preston BEM

Director of Communications, Advancement and Stakeholder Engagement, University of Essex

Liam Preston is the Director of Communications, Advancement and Stakeholder Engagement at the University of Essex, where he leads a portfolio covering communications, advancement, alumni relations, stakeholder engagement, and outreach. Since joining Essex in 2022, Liam has helped shape the University’s reputation locally, nationally, and globally; overseeing its 60th anniversary celebrations, strategic brand development, and major internal and external engagement initiatives.

Before working in higher education, Liam held senior leadership roles in the third sector, with a focus on advocacy, brand, campaigns, communications, and public affairs. He has served as Chair, Vice-Chair, and trustee of several national charities and educational institutions, and was elected President of his Students’ Union for two consecutive terms. In 2020, he was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to young people.

Following the death of his daughter Paloma in 2018, Liam has focused much of his voluntary work on baby bereavement support. He is the co-host of Dad Still Standing, an award-winning podcast that provides a toolkit for bereaved dads navigating loss. He regularly speaks at events, campaigns for change, and works closely with charities to support parents through grief.

At Essex, Liam is focused on building a bold, values-led communications culture that strengthens the University’s public voice, fosters connection with local and global communities, and champions Essex’s mission to make change happen.