Vice-Chancellor of Glyndŵr University Professor Michael Scott Intends To Step Down

It has been announced today that Glyndwr’s Vice Chancellor Professor Michael Scott intends to step down from his role in 2015.

Professor Scott said today in a statement: “The good news of the UKVI lifting of Glyndŵr University’s suspension enables me to give further consideration to my own position which has been the subject of speculation around the University for some time.”

“Whilst I am not in a position presently to give any formal notice under the terms of my contract of employment I can advise that it is my current intention that subject to satisfactory arrangements I would like to relinquish my role as Vice-Chancellor at some point during the next calendar year.

“Rumours can be put to rest permitting us to get on with the work of rebuilding and safeguarding the University for the benefit of students, stakeholders and the communities which we serve.”

Exact details of when Mr Scott will step down have not been decided, with the determination of the date dependent on a number of personal and institutional factors. However it is noted that there is an objective to allow a smooth transition for the benefit of the University.

There has been speculation surrounding the Vice Chancellor’s role at the University for a few months. Today’s announcement comes just days after Glyndwr University won back its ‘Highly Trusted Sponsor’ Status.

Chancellor of the University, Sir Jon Shortridge, said: “Professor Michael Scott has been an inspirational leader of the University and its predecessor institution since 2002.
“During that time and under his leadership, Glyndwr University was born and developed quickly.

“He has been a tireless worker for the interests of both students and the North East Wales community.

“On behalf of the Board Governors, I want to express our sincere thanks for the contribution he has made to Higher Education in North East Wales.”

Sir Jon added: “Professor Scott has left a profound, positive legacy in numerous ways and particularly through the benefit of his passion for widening student access to Higher Education.

“During his stewardship the University has significantly developed the Wrexham campus with innovative new buildings, including the Centre for the Creative Industries and the Centre for the Child, Family and Society.

“New campuses have been developed at St Asaph, Northop, Broughton and London and student numbers have increased significantly, leading to a record-breaking intake of 1,350+ students in Wrexham for the 2014/15 academic year.

“The University also moved 44 places up the Guardian University Guide league tables, to number 64 – another staggering success story.

“The Board of Governors will continue to work closely with Professor Scott until he hands over the baton to a successor who will build on his outstanding achievements.”

Professor Scott was previously Pro Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University, Leicester, which he joined in 1989 from Sunderland Polytechnic where he was Professor of English and Head of the School of Humanities.