As Chief of Staff Jhumar’s focus at the University is two-fold, acting as aide, adviser and problem-solver to the Vice-Chancellor to assist with achieving his objectives and responsibilities towards the success of the University; and ensuring our alumni, donors and partners are at the heart of the OU family along with our staff and students.

Jhumar was responsible for delivering the University’s first ever fundraising campaign, raising £60m and running a year-long integrated campaign to celebrate The Open University’s 50th anniversary in 2019 across the four UK nations and internationally. She has a background in major gifts consulting and practice in the not-for-profit sector, working with house-hold names, large and small and advising individuals and families on shaping their philanthropy.

She is an Executive coach, mentor and trainer focussing on major gifts fundraising, career planning, leadership development, confidence and gravitas, influencing and negotiating. She is an alumna of Said Business School, the University of Westminster, the Open University and the University of Mumbai.

She is passionate about building talent, diversity and confidence in our sector and loves public-speaking.