A new vice chancellor has been appointed to step into the role at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in the new academic year.

Professor Graham Baldwin, currently Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Employer Engagement at Solent University in Southampton, has been selected for the job.

His appointment was announced today (Tuesday May 14) by UCLan’s David Taylor CBE, Pro-chancellor and Chair of the University Board, who said the appointment would be approved, subject to formal ratification by the University Board, on 16 May.

He said: “Following a rigorous recruitment and selection process, a number of experienced, high calibre candidates were interviewed for the role.

“Graham embodied all the key leadership qualities that we were searching for and his vision for UCLan resonated with our ambitions for the University.

“He has had five successful years as Vice-Chancellor at Solent, has extensive knowledge of the HE (Higher Education) sector and a real passion for helping people from all walks of life achieve their potential.

“We look forward to welcoming Graham when he joins us in the new academic year.”

Read more: Preston’s university pledges to put city at its heart

The appointment is a homecoming tour for Graham, who prior to joining Solent University in 2014, Graham spent 13 years of his career at UCLan initially working as a Head of Department in the Lancashire Business School and moving up to the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) in January 2010.

Prof Baldwin said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed Vice-Chancellor of UCLan.

“It is an institution that has real strengths as well as great opportunities to exploit further development and success.

“My values and beliefs closely align with the vision and mission of UCLan particularly to ensure the highest quality of student experience with a focus on overall student achievement. 

“UCLan is very close to my heart and it will be a privilege to work with the excellent staff to take the University forward.”