The Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is standing down with immediate effect - just two years after he took up the role.
In October 2019, Professor Ian Campbell was announced as the new head of LJMU, taking on responsibility for 25,000 students in the city.
Originally from the north west, he started his own academic career in the region and went on to hold senior roles at Hertfordshire and Brunel universities before being announced as LJMU's new vice chancellor.
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He was only a few short months into that role when the coronavirus pandemic struck - an event that had a profound impact on all universities, staff and students.
The news of his abrupt departure came via a statement today from Mike Parker, Chair of the Board of Governors at LJMU.
He said: "Following discussions between myself as Chair of the Board of Governors and the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ian Campbell has confirmed to me as Chair of the Board that he intends, for personal reasons, to step down as Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Liverpool John Moores University with immediate effect.
"During his time at the University, the board has very much valued Professor Campbell’s student focused approach and authentic leadership style, particularly throughout this period of unprecedented disruption and change.
"The Board extends its thanks and good wishes for the future to Professor Campbell."
Mr Parker confirmed that LJMU Registrar and Chief Operating Officer, Mark Power, will now assume the role of Interim Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive with immediate effect.
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