Prof David Richardson resigns as Vice-Chancellor and President of UEA
By: Communications
Professor David Richardson has today announced that he has taken the decision to resign as Vice-Chancellor and President of University of East Anglia (UEA).
In a message to UEA staff, Prof Richardson said:
“As you are aware UEA and the whole Higher Education sector are now facing a variety of further challenges, but genuine opportunity also lies ahead for UEA, the Norwich Research Park and the region. I have been conscious of the need for a new vision for UEA since we began to emerge from Covid in 2021 and have deliberated whether I am the person to lead that vision or whether a new vision needs a new leader. After 15 years on the Executive Team and nine years as Vice-Chancellor, I have concluded now that the time has come for me to step away so that UEA can develop a new long-term vision to take it forward beyond its 60th anniversary with new leadership.”
David has been at the heart of UEA’s success and world-leading achievements for 32 years. He’s also been a dedicated and passionate leader and champion of UEA locally, nationally and globally. He has guided the University through many difficult times, including through the challenging years of Covid. He has also been a strong campaigner and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the Higher Education sector in his roles as co-chair of the Race Equality Charter’s Governance Committee and Advance HE’s Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
In recognition of David’s significant contribution he will become an Emeritus Professor of UEA.
Dr Sally Howes, Chair of UEA Council said; “David’s decision to step down is a sad day for the University, but it’s a mark of his character that he supports the handover to a new leader who can bring a fresh perspective and renewed vigour to the future vision of UEA.
“I’m sure I speak for the whole community when we thank David for his commitment and service to UEA for these many years.
UEA is an incredibly successful institution which delivers outstanding education to thousands of students from across the world, and globally-recognised research. We have been open about the challenges we face and the leadership of the University and UEA Council are confident in the steps they are taking to deliver UEA’s long term financial stability and to ensure a successful future vision and strategy for the University.
Prof Richardson has written a personal message to the UEA community which you can read on the UEA website.
In the short term, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Christine Bovis-Cnossen will be Acting Vice-Chancellor. UEA Council has begun the search for Professor Richardson’s successor.
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