President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Boyle, to leave the University of Leicester to become Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University 

Professor Paul Boyle CBE joined the University in October 2014 and is recognised for delivering many new achievements for the University. In research and enterprise, the University’s grant income has outperformed its peers in recent years and it has moved into the UK Top 10 for research citations; he has secured European funding, creating the University’s first Innovation Hub; and has also enabled Government funding for Phase I of Space Park Leicester putting the region at the heart of the UK’s space industry.

He has also championed inclusivity and diversity within the University, evidenced by our involvement in the United Nations HeForShe movement, achieving Athena Swan Silver, a rapid rise in the rankings in the Stonewall Index, as well as working with students and the Students’ Union in standing against gender-based violence.

The University's Chair of Council, Dr Bridget Towle, paid tribute to Professor Boyle. She said: “Since his arrival, Professor Boyle has worked hard to achieve significant progress in a number of key areas. There has been increased investment in our student experience and he has driven our research success. His campaigning for equality and inclusivity and the delivery of a vision for Space Park Leicester are a testament to his leadership. I am sure that everyone in our community will join me in giving Paul their best wishes as he embarks on the next phase of his career.”

Professor Boyle said: “During my time at the University we have achieved, together, a huge amount. I am grateful to all our staff and students for the hard work that has allowed our University to progress in so many areas. 

“My decision to leave was, as you would expect, an incredibly difficult one. It has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve the University as President and Vice-Chancellor. The University and the city of Leicester will always be very special for me and my family.” 

The University will now start a global recruitment process for a new President and Vice-Chancellor.