The man leading Preston’s university for the last four years has decided to step-down.

Professor Mike Thomas will leave his role as vice-chancellor of the University of Central Lancashire on Friday (30 November).

Prof Thomas has launched the university’s £200million masterplan for the city campus and brought a more Preston-focused approach to the institution which previously had invested heavily in campuses abroad.

UCLan’s pro-vice chancellor and chair of the university board David Taylor CBE said: “I wish to announce that Professor Thomas will be stepping down from his post as Vice-Chancellor of the University, from 30 November. Professor Thomas wishes to pursue further academic opportunities and will remain active in the sector.

“On behalf of the University, I wish to express my thanks to Professor Thomas for his service to the University since he joined us in September 2014 and to wish him every success for the future.

“Professor Thomas stated that he would like to say thank you to colleagues at the University whom he holds in the highest regard.

“I have asked our two Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Lynne Livesey and Liz Bromley, to take on the responsibilities of the Vice-Chancellor as joint leads for the Institution until a permanent replacement is appointed. I know that you will give every support to Lynne and Liz through this transitional period.”

Read more: Is UCLan a good thing or bad thing for Preston?

Professor Thomas was initially appointed as caretaker vice-chancellor in 2014 before being appointed to the role in December 2015.

He said at the time of appointment: “It’s a fascinating and highly challenging role, but having worked with the staff and the students here I have seen that we have the potential to really make an impact over the next few years.”

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