University News Last updated 01 June 2012
On 31May Birmingham City University’s Board of Governors confirmed that Professor Cliff Allan, currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, has been appointed as the University’s next Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Allan will succeed Professor David Tidmarsh, who announced last November his decision to retire from the role of Vice-Chancellor in 2013 after six years in the post.
A long and successful career in Higher Education has seen Professor Allan in a number of senior leadership roles. As Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam, he has been responsible for the development of the University’s academic portfolio and international strategy, overseeing the management of HR, Marketing and Student and Learning Services.
Prior to joining Sheffield Hallam in 2010, Professor Allan was Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) at Teesside University.
Professor Allan, who is expected to take up the role of Vice-Chancellor in early 2013, is former Deputy Chief Executive of the Higher Education Academy, having previously been its Director or Programmes, and has also served as Head of Teaching and Learning Policy at the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).
Professor Allan 'honoured' to be appointed
Speaking about the appointment, Professor Allan said: “I am both honoured and excited to have been appointed as Birmingham City University’s next Vice-Chancellor. I am very much looking forward to building on the tremendous successes delivered by Professor Tidmarsh, which have helped grow the University’s popularity and reputation, as well as developing an estates strategy that will give the University state-of-the-art facilities in an increasingly competitive market.
Professor Allan has an impressive track record and the Board is immensely pleased that someone of his calibre will be leading the University in the years ahead.
"I am therefore delighted to welcome him to the University.”
Alex Stephenson
Chairman of the Board of Governors
“On visiting the University, I have been particularly impressed by the spirit of partnership between staff and students, which has already received national acclaim. I am convinced that together we can further develop this innovative approach to learning and teaching to ensure the University is a first choice institution.”
Professor David Tidmarsh, who is stepping down after a total of 18 years in various roles across the University, added: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Vice-Chancellor for Birmingham City University, and I shall continue to support the University after I retire. The University is now well positioned for the new environment it faces, with a strong brand, excellent demand for places and a committed and talented staff who have done so much to increase national recognition for our learning and teaching. I wish Professor Allan every success in his future role.”