Acting Vice-Chancellor to take over from McMahon for rest of the year

Former Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Grattan will take over the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor until the end of the year.

Last year April McMahon announced her decision to end her five-year term as VC of Aberystwyth University following criticism regarding her high salary and the uni’s poor performance in league tables.

Now the university has appointed Professor Grattan to the role on a temporary basis between February and July.

He said he will be focusing on externally-facing aspects of the Vice-Chancellorship.

The Professor said: “It is a privilege to be appointed to the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor for Aberystwyth University and I look forward to working with Vice-Chancellor Professor April McMahon over the coming months to build on the excellent work that has been done during her time here.

“Aberystwyth University is investing over £100m in new research and teaching facilities, and student residences, work that is critical for the future success of the University and the local economy.

“The University is recognised internationally for the quality of its teaching and research, and for the student experience, and 2016 will be a year for building on these in what is an increasingly competitive recruitment market.”

The Professor started started lecturing in Aber in 1995 and has since held several internal leadership roles, including Dean of the Faculty of Science.

Sir Emyr Jones Parry, Chancellor and Chair of Aberystwyth University’s Council, added: “I welcome the University Council’s appointment of Professor Grattan to the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor, and the Council looks forward to working with him.”