The University has today announced the appointment of Professor Phillip Wright as Senior Vice-President (Academic), following an extensive recruitment process started earlier this year, and which saw an outstanding field of candidates from the UK and internationally.
Professor Wright, who is currently Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering at Newcastle University, will join Southampton on 1 May 2021.
Our President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mark E. Smith said:
‘I am delighted that we have managed to secure Phillip to fill the crucial role of Senior Vice-President (Academic). We were lucky to have an exceptional field to choose from. Phillip really impressed the panel with his vision and enthusiasm for Southampton. His demonstrable achievements in developing a planning process, internationalisation and digital developments closely fitted what we need for this role. However, it was his genuine commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion as well as to embedding sustainability that really shone through. I very much look forward to working with Phillip in this role and welcoming him to Southampton in May.’
The Senior Vice-President (Academic) will play a vital role in promoting and maintaining the University’s academic mission. Professor Wright will Chair a new Deans’ Council, have oversight of all academic planning across faculties, and ensure the alignment of resources with the University’s strategic goals. This will provide a key focus for ensuring a One Southampton approach to a range of strategic activities including championing the development of a Digital Strategy for the University.
Professor Wright will also provide academic leadership on people-related issues, enable closer engagement on major academic initiatives as well as championing the University’s portfolio of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary activity. He will also be the standing deputy for the Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Phillip Wright commented:
‘I am really thrilled and honoured to be joining Southampton. It is a truly a world-class university, anchored in its region but finding solutions to problems that make a real global impact.
I am excited to see how my new role can help shape Southampton’s future, by supporting our staff, students and alumni to continue to play a leading role in transforming the world for the better.
When I join you in May, I will be keen to meet as many of you as I can in the global Southampton community, who I know are committed to working inclusively and collegially.’
