University chief resigns

THE high profile head of Leeds Metropolitan University has resigned from his post, it has been confirmed.

Professor Simon Lee, who was appointed vice-chancellor in 2003, will leave his position in the summer.

Prof Lee has been behind the university’s multi-million pound sponsorships of Headingley Carnegie stadium, the Leeds Carnegie rugby union team and the Rugby League Carnegie Challenge Cup.

During his time as vice-chancellor, the university has undergone some dramatic changes and will change its name to Leeds Carnegie University this year.

The institution’s Carnegie Faculty of Sport and Education has developed into a centre of excellence for sports-related studies.

The city university employs 3,600 people and has a student population of almost 50,000.

Ninian Watt, chairman of the university’s board of governors said: “Simon has led six extraordinarily successful years of transformation of the university and we look forward to that momentum being maintained.  The university is well placed to attract our next vice-chancellor and we will be advertising accordingly.

“There will be plenty of opportunities in due course for students, staff, governors, partner organisations and other friends of the University to thank Professor Lee and indeed Mrs Lee for service to our community.”