John Joughin has been acting vice-chancellor for the past six months following the departure of Patrick McGhee on health grounds.

Before that, Professor Joughin was deputy vice-chancellor, leading the university¡¯s research strategy.

He has 20 years¡¯ experience ¡°as an accomplished academic and Shakespearean scholar¡±, the university said in a press release.

Professor McGhee left suddenly in January, but in May returned to Twitter, thanking well-wishers for their support.

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Both UEL¡¯s pro vice-chancellor, international, John Shaw, and pro vice-chancellor and director of finance, Nirmal Borkhataria, also left the institution between the end of December 2012 and the end of January 2013.

Commenting on Professor Joughin¡¯s appointment, Mark Stephens, chair of UEL¡¯s board of governors, said: ¡°The board believe John has the optimal skill set to lead the university.

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¡°His dedication and commitment to UEL and the wider community, along with his exemplary track record in higher education puts him in the best position to lead the university.¡±

Professor Joughin said: ¡°I am extremely proud of our committed staff and talented students, and I am honoured to serve them as vice-chancellor, at what is a challenging but exciting time for higher education.

¡°I look forward to working with students, staff, governors and stakeholders to secure a successful future for the university in the years ahead.¡±

david.matthews@tsleducation.com