London South Bank University's Board of Governors has today announced the appointment of Professor Martin Earwicker as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive in succession to Professor Deian Hopkin who will be retiring in April 2009. Professor Earwicker will join the University from the position of Director of the National Museum of Science and Industry family of Museums.
David Longbottom, Pro Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors commented "The Appointments Committee was particularly impressed by Professor Earwicker's commitment to widening participation in education and his blend of commercial, academic and broad ranging public sector experience gives him a unique perspective within higher education at this time of change."
He added, "On behalf of all of us I would like at this time to recognise the major contribution that Professor Deian Hopkin has made to the University during his period of office. He will leave LSBU on a sound financial footing, and with a strong reputation for both adding value to our students' lives and developing our staff."
Professor Earwicker said, "This new opportunity at London South Bank University is one I could not refuse and I look forward to working again for another institution that inspires innovation and creativity and encourages lifelong learning. For the past two and a half years at NMSI I have worked with many talented and hardworking individuals and I wish all at NMSI every success in the future."
LSBU combines ambition with a practical approach. 6th in the UK for graduate starting salaries*, LSBU has one of the strongest Knowledge Transfer Programmes in the country and a fundamental belief in widening participation.
The outgoing Chief Executive of HEFCE, David Eastwood recently commented that "LSBU has achieved a repositioning amongst the most effective I have seen at a London university".
LSBU was also recently described by the Sunday Times as being "...embedded in its south London community to an extent that other universities can only dream of."