Vice Chancellor to step down this October as interim leadership announced

Posted on: 2 September, 2026

Vice Chancellor Professor Ashley Wheaton is to step down at the end of October after 13 years. He will be succeeded on an interim basis by Deputy Vice Chancellor Jane Fawkes whilst recruitment for a permanent successor continues.

Ros Kerslake CBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said:

“At the end of October, we will say goodbye to Ashley after a remarkable period of over 13 years of transformational leadership of the University. As Ashley moves on to new opportunities, now is the right time to pass the baton on to prepare the University for its new long term leadership.”

“We are delighted to have Jane Fawkes step in as Interim; she will be able to ensure continuity of leadership, having played a significant role in shaping the University into what it is today. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Jane in the coming months.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Professor Ashley Wheaton said:

“I leave knowing I have done all I can to prepare the University for a successful future with strong plans in place to progress our strategy in the coming year.”

“It has been a huge privilege to lead this unique institution and I am looking forward to reflecting on the progress we have made with colleagues from across the sector in these final weeks before I step down.”

Looking ahead, Jane Fawkes said:

“I am honoured to be leading this remarkable institution which I am proud to have served for over 25 years. I look forward to working with colleagues to continue to support our wonderful students and build on our progress in delivering our University strategy whilst we continue the recruitment process for a new permanent Vice Chancellor.”

         

Left to right: Vice Chancellor Professor Ashley Wheaton, Deputy Vice Chancellor Jane Fawkes and Ros Kerslake CBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees