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The University of Cumbria has appointed Graham Upton interim vice-chancellor, following the sudden departure of Peter McCaffery.

Dr McCaffery left on 19 May, after just ten months in the position, in a decision that the university said was taken by ¡°mutual consent¡±.

Professor Upton, who spent 10 years as vice-chancellor of Oxford Brookes University, will take up the post of interim vice-chancellor on 24 May.

Cumbria published a new business plan just two days before Dr McCaffery left. The institution is likely to face a ?30 million deficit by the end of the financial year.

Peter Ballard, chairman of the university¡¯s board of directors, said: ¡°Applications to our university remain buoyant and our staff and students continue to excel in their academic endeavours. Professor Upton joins the senior team to build on this important work.

¡°While the University of Cumbria still has challenges to meet in a difficult economic environment, we are confident that under the leadership of Professor Upton and with the support of the whole community the university will progress and flourish.¡±

john.morgan@tsleducation.com