Shearer West to swap Nottingham for Leeds as vice-chancellor

The University of Leeds has poached the University of Nottingham’s vice-chancellor to be its next leader.

Shearer West, who has headed Nottingham since 2017, will join Leeds as vice-chancellor in November.

Leeds has been led by acting vice-chancellor Hai-Sui Yu since the sudden departure of Simone Buitendijk in late 2023. Professor Buitendijk had been in charge for just three years when she stepped down, having overseen a period of significant change – promising to abolish traditional lectures and replace them with a blended learning approach – as well as major industrial unrest, with support staff staging more than 50 days of strikes in a dispute over pay.

Professor West said she felt “extremely privileged to have been chosen to be part of an institution that is known for its global outlook, outstanding research and commitment to an exceptional experience for its students”.

“I am a strong believer in the value of a comprehensive university like Leeds that makes new discoveries across the full disciplinary spectrum and fosters different ways of thinking. Its values-led strategy aligns with my own leadership philosophy and view of higher education – to benefit society, the economy and quality of life for people at regional, national and global levels,” Professor West said.

“Leeds has nurtured Nobel laureates, leaders, opinion formers and prize-winning authors. None of these achievements would be possible without the collective talent, dedication and creativity of its staff and students from all corners of the globe. I am keen to meet my new colleagues at Leeds and its many students, to listen and learn from them, as I become part of this exceptional community.”

Before joining Nottingham, Professor West was provost and deputy vice-chancellor of the University of Sheffield, and head of the humanities division at the University of Oxford.

Meanwhile, Professor Buitendijk is coming towards the end of a six-month term as interim deputy vice-chancellor and provost of the University of Salford.

Leeds said Professor Yu would return to his previous post of provost and deputy vice-chancellor after Professor West’s arrival.

Alastair Da Costa, chair of Leeds’ council, said Professor West had “demonstrated the strategic vision, personal energy and extensive leadership experience to guide our institution into the next phase of its success”.

“Professor West has an innate understanding for how the highest-quality research, innovation and student education can support a dynamic global outlook alongside an impactful contribution to our region and the communities that live within it. She also brings an astute perception of the ability of higher education to advance fairness and equality, within our own community and far beyond,” Mr Da Costa said.

“I would also like to thank Professor Hai-Sui Yu, who has led our institution and community throughout the intervening period with incredible skill, energy and diplomacy. He has reinvigorated our approach to research, student education, staff engagement and strategic change and set the conditions for further success.”

chris.havergal@timeshighereducation.com