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New Vice-Chancellor for University of Bradford

Press Release - 20 December 2006

The University of Bradford has appointed Professor Mark Cleary, currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at the University of Plymouth, to the post of Vice-Chancellor and Principal in effect from 1 May 2007.

Professor Cleary will succeed Professor Chris Taylor, who retires from the University on 30 April 2007 after five and a half years as Vice-Chancellor.

Following special meetings of the University's Senate and Council, the Chairman of Council, Paul Jagger, said: "We had a very strong field of candidates for the post which I think reflects the attractiveness of the University and the City.

“We are delighted to have appointed a candidate with such an outstanding academic record and senior management experience as Professor Cleary. I am sure that he will bring great leadership qualities to the University and I look forward to working closely with him."

Professor Cleary said: "I am thrilled to have been offered the position of Vice-Chancellor and Principal, and I am looking forward to the challenges of leading the University.

“The strengths of the University in teaching, research and engagement with the local community, as well as its broader international work, are huge attractions to me and I am really looking forward to working with staff to develop and promote the outstanding work being done at the University of Bradford.

“The higher education landscape is changing very rapidly and I am certain that the University has the strength and confidence to establish a national and international position of excellence.”

During the last five years of Professor Taylor’s leadership, the University has gone from strength to strength. Last year saw a 30 per cent increase in undergraduate students and there has been further growth this year. Bradford has also broadened and strengthened its academic portfolio and is transforming its estate and facilities, with more than £17 million invested to date, including the opening of a new conference centre and Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, as well as a new Atrium at the centre of the main campus.

This programme of investment in the University’s future is running in parallel with the activities in the City, and the University is committed to playing a key role in the city and district.

20 December 2006