An engineering academic has been appointed as the new vice-chancellor at Northumbria University.
Prof Andy Long will become the Newcastle-based university’s vice-chancellor and chief executive in August, following the retirement on incumbent Prof Andrew Wathey.
Prof Long is currently provost and deputy vice-chancellor at Nottingham University, where he has studied and worked since 1990. He had previously been the university’s pro-vice-chancellor for its faculty of engineering, and before that its executive dean and associate dean for research.
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Prof Long has degrees from Warwick, Loughborough and Nottingham universities, and is a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
His research centred on polymer composite materials with applications in the aerospace, automotive and renewable energy sectors.
He said: “I am absolutely delighted to take up the role of vice-chancellor and chief executive and cannot wait to join Northumbria’s community.
“It is clear that the staff and students have a passion that I share for excellence in research, teaching and learning and I hope to build on the achievements of Prof Wathey over his many years in the role. I look forward to getting to know my new colleagues and Northumbria’s students, as well as working and living in the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne.”
Dr Roberta Blackman-Woods, chair of the board of governors at Northumbria, said: ‘I am incredibly excited to welcome Prof Long into the Northumbria community following a highly competitive selection process, where the standard was exceptionally high.
“Professor Long’s clear strategic vision and wealth of experience in leadership in higher education will be invaluable in taking this great University into its next phase. His commitment, drive and enthusiasm for Northumbria will build on the outstanding achievements of Professor Wathey and his team.
“I, and the board, look forward to working closely with Professor Long, and the university executive, to continue to deliver our ambitious plans for Northumbria University. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Prof Andrew Wathey for his outstanding leadership during what has been a challenging time for the sector, and for his personal contribution to the transformation of Northumbria over the last 14 years.”
