Professor Kevin Shakesheff Appointed Next Vice-Chancellor of Keele University

University and College Union Warns of Teaching Quality Impact Due to Staff Reductions

Keele University staff organised a five-day strike to protest against proposed job cuts associated with the planned merger of the humanities and social sciences schools. The University and College Union (UCU) expressed deep concerns over the restructuring plan, highlighting that it could potentially result in the loss of 24 full-time positions. Strongly opposing compulsory redundancies, union members staged a rally to demonstrate their dissatisfaction and stress the need for constructive dialogue to resolve the issue.

While Keele University attributed these job cuts to financial pressures and challenges in student recruitment, UCU's Dr. Daniela Plana contested the claim. She pointed out that tuition income had steadily increased over the past decade, whereas staffing costs had remained stable. Union representatives acknowledged the broader financial strain affecting the higher education sector but emphasised that Keele’s problems were more closely tied to rising administrative expenses. Dr. Plana warned that these staff reductions might adversely impact teaching quality and undermine the university's impressive student satisfaction record.

A strike ballot revealed that just over half of UCU members at Keele participated, with 75% voting in favour of industrial action. Keele University noted that this figure constituted approximately 5% of its total workforce. Although acknowledging the uncertainty these measures could create for staff and students, university officials insisted the decision was necessary to secure the institution's long-term sustainability.

Amid these developments, Keele University announced the appointment of Professor Kevin Shakesheff as its next vice-chancellor. Currently serving as the pro vice-chancellor for research and innovation at The Open University, Professor Shakesheff is recognised for his expertise in research, commercial strategy, and academic growth. He is set to assume his new role on September 1, succeeding Professor Trevor McMillan, who will retire after a decade of dedicated service. These events highlight the university's ongoing challenges as it navigates both immediate financial pressures and long-term strategic changes.

Editor's Note

The recent developments at Keele University underline the significant challenges faced by the higher education sector, where financial pressures often demand difficult decisions. The five-day strike organised by staff reflects their concerns over job cuts and restructuring plans, signalling the urgent need for transparent and constructive dialogue between all stakeholders. While the university has emphasised long-term sustainability, it is essential to balance financial management with the preservation of teaching quality and student satisfaction. 

As per Skoobuzz, the appointment of Professor Kevin Shakesheff as the next vice-chancellor marks a pivotal moment. His leadership in research and innovation offers hope for strengthening the institution’s academic and strategic vision in the years to come.