GuildHE will be recruiting a new Chief Executive in the New Year following Andy Westwood’s announcement that he will be stepping down. Andy will take up his new role as Associate Vice-President for Public Affairs at the University of Manchester from February 2015 in addition to his role as Professor of Politics and Policy at the University of Winchester. Andy has been Chief Executive of GuildHE since 2010 and during his time has overseen a significant increase in members and the award of University title to 12 GuildHE institutions.

GuildHE Chair and Vice Chancellor, University of Winchester, Professor Joy Carter, said,

“Andy has done a great job as CEO of GuildHE and his insights and experience of both Government and the sector have been invaluable as a resource to members. He has championed the contribution of a diverse higher education sector and I know colleagues will be sorry to see him go. The GuildHE Executive will begin the search for an outstanding candidate to take up the role of Chief Executive in the New Year.”

Andy Westwood said,

“GuildHE is a fantastic place. I have enjoyed the last four years enormously. It’s a great team of people and amazing set of member institutions. They are always interesting, energetic and dynamic. It’s been a complete privilege to be a part of it and I know both the organisation and its members will go from strength to strength.”

Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester, Professor Colin Bailey, said:

“I am delighted that Andy is joining us as Associate Vice-President for Public Affairs.  Andy’s knowledge and experience will help us in strengthening our interaction with central government and allow us to respond more quickly to government policy, resulting in greater impact and benefit for the UK.”