Siona Mackelworth has been appointed as director of marketing for the York St John University College. She now heads up its marketing, public relations and admissions teams. Siona has come to York St John from the University College Of The Creative Arts in Surrey, where she was closely involved in a major brand redevelopment project as it became a University College.

That experience is likely to prove invaluable now that York St John has applied for university status. A result is expected later this year.

Before entering the education sector, Siona had a varied early career covering stints in marketing for a US magazine, film festivals and museum development. She then spent three years at the University of Surrey before moving to The Surrey Institute of Art & Design in 1996 to manage its marketing and communications. She said: "York St John is embarking upon an exciting period of change.

"In the short time I have been here, I have been very impressed with the friendly and positive outlook of both staff and students.

"I am looking forward to being part of how we shape our future."

Updated: 10:48 Monday, May 22, 2006