Professor David Phoenix to be new Vice-Chancellor at London South Bank University
London South Bank University (LSBU) has appointed Professor David Phoenix as its new Vice-Chancellor designate.Professor Phoenix is currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and will take up his new role in London on 1 January 2014, when Professor Martin Earwicker retires after five years as LSBU's Vice-Chancellor.
David Longbottom, Chair of the Board of Governors at London South Bank University, said: "On behalf of the Board, I am delighted that David will be joining us in January when Martin retires. David brings with him a strong background in leadership within the Higher Education sector which will prove vital in realising the University's vision."
Commenting on his new appointment Professor Phoenix said: "Like UCLan, London South Bank University has a long and distinguished history for helping people from all walks of life achieve their potential. The University has a strong focus on the student experience and employability and I am honoured to have been offered the opportunity to lead the institution into the next phase of its development."
Professor Phoenix's career at UCLan spans 21 years. In 2000 he launched UCLan's Department of Forensic and Investigative Science and in 2002 became the University's Dean of Science, overseeing the opening of a new School of Pharmacy, the re-launch of chemistry and the initial stages in the development of architecture. In 2008 he became Deputy Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for strategic planning and performance across the University of Central Lancashire Group where he oversaw UCLan's inclusion in the QS World Rankings and was instrumental in creating UCLan's first overseas research institute in China as well as its new campus in Cyprus.
In 2010 he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for Services to Science and Higher Education, and his contribution to education was further recognised by the Academy of Social Sciences which awarded him the prestigious title of Academician in 2012.
Professor Martin Earwicker announced his intention to retire in October 2012 after four years as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive. His many achievements since joining LSBU in April 2009 have included improved academic outcomes, professionalising management and achieving financial stability.