Alistair Fitt will formally take over as vice-chancellor on 1 February from Janet Beer, who is leaving to become the vice-chancellor of the University of Liverpool.

Professor Fitt came to Oxford Brookes from the University of Southampton, where he was pro vice-chancellor, international. He is currently pro vice-chancellor for research and knowledge exchange at Oxford Brookes.

Geoff Donnelly, chair of the university¡¯s board of governors, led the recruitment process. He said he was confident the university ¡°will continue to achieve great things locally, nationally and internationally¡± with Professor Fitt at the helm.

He added: ¡°Alistair¡¯s exceptional work in leading the university¡¯s research and knowledge exchange agenda, alongside his leadership skills, previous experience and vision for the future of the organisation, made him the ideal appointment.¡±?

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Professor Fitt said the appointment was a ¡°great honour¡±. ¡°I am extremely passionate about Brookes and what it stands for ¨C it is no secret that this university is a very special place.?We have all the key ingredients for continued success ¨C dedicated and talented staff, high-calibre, engaged students, and friends and organisational partners who dedicate time and energy to joint endeavours,¡± he said.

He added: ¡°Janet is leaving the university in great shape and I will dedicate my time as vice-chancellor to working with staff, students and friends to build on her legacy.¡±

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Professor Beer said: ¡°It has been a pleasure to work alongside Alistair for the last four years and, although I am sad to be leaving, I am delighted to know that the university will be led by such a respected and inspiring individual.¡±

In his current role, Professor Fitt oversaw the university¡¯s submission to the research excellence framework, in which 59 per cent of the institution¡¯s research was judged to be world-leading.

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