New Chairman of the Board for Plymouth University

Rod is an experienced non-executive and executive director with a proven track record of success in the commercial, public and charitable sectors. He started his career with Wates Group, where he was construction Managing Director for 10 years, and then Group Chief Operating Officer until 2003.

He currently holds non-executive Chairman roles with Home Group, and McNicholas Construction Holdings; is Chairman of the Council of Management of St Christopher’s Hospice; and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Construction Youth Trust.

Professor Wendy Purcell, Vice-Chancellor of Plymouth University, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rod to our University. Our Board of distinguished Governors will benefit from his wealth of experience across a range of sectors. Rod recognises the transformational nature of education and shares our values and global ambitions for the University going forward.”

Rod’s appointment follows a six-month, national recruitment campaign, culminating in a final round of panel discussions in which Board members and student representatives had an opportunity to question the candidates.

Speaking of his appointment, Rod said: “When I first visited Plymouth University I was hugely impressed by its ambition, culture and people. To be invited to be part of the future development of the University, at such a time of change in Higher Education, is a great honour and a very exciting opportunity. I am determined to reward the trust placed in me by the Governors, and together, work to transform the lives of our students.”

Rod will take up the post on April 2nd, 2012.