University News Last updated 24 April 2017
Birmingham City University has appointed Professor Philip Plowden as Vice-Chancellor to take the institution into the next phase of its development.
Professor Plowden has served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Derby for the last four years, where he delivered a step-change in academic quality – with the institution’s league table position rising from 91st to 48th.
Professor Plowden is a qualified solicitor and barrister, as well as a National Teaching Fellow.
Commenting ahead of taking up the role at Birmingham City University on 1 September 2017, Professor Plowden said: “I’m delighted to have the chance to lead Birmingham City University at such an incredibly exciting stage in its history. It is a university that has a world-class campus at the very heart one of the country’s great cities, while its Edgbaston campus is about to open superb new sport and life sciences facilities.
“I look forward to helping the University continue to develop its enormous potential, offering students even more opportunities to transform their lives."
Announcing the appointment, Chair of the Board of Governors at Birmingham City University Mark Hopton, FCA, said: “I’m delighted to have secured the appointment of Professor Philip Plowden, who headed a strong field of candidates. Philip has a superb track-record of improving the quality of teaching and learning for students, and building a university’s reputation.
“He has overseen an impressive rise in the standings of his current institution and has a strong understanding of Higher Education and the opportunities and challenges presented.”
Professor Philip Plowden added: “I look forward to working with staff, students, businesses, the community and public sector organisations to make sure we support the growth of the city, region, and the country, producing graduates with the skills and talent to thrive.”