Incoming Chancellor Bruce Gemmell will put collaboration at the top of his agenda when he takes the reins at Lincoln University in January.
His emphasis will be on partnerships with the university’s neighbours, as well as land-based public and private institutions, and he intends to accelerate the Lincoln campus rebuild.
Mr Gemmell’s appointment follows current Chancellor Steve Smith’s decision not to seek re-election at the conclusion of his term in December.
Mr Smith said it had been “an incredibly difficult decision to make”, but a personal business venture was likely to compromise the time required for him to lead the university.
“My belief in and love for Lincoln University is unwavering,” said Mr Smith. “It rightfully deserves its place in the world. However, the demands of this role, especially when faced with unexpected complexities of government initiatives, are huge, and they need the full attention of the Chancellor.”
Mr Smith has been a member of the Transformation Board since joining the Lincoln University Council in 2016. He led an ambitious project to deliver on the report’s recommendations following his appointment to the Chancellor’s position in June 2017.
He cited the financial and operational stability achieved by the university during this period as one of his greatest highlights, alongside Lincoln’s new value proposition and brand platform.
“We have exceeded even our own expectations for financial, operational and academic success,” said Mr Smith. “Most importantly, our staff and students seem optimistic about our future, while at the same time, we have leapt ahead in the international QS rankings.”
Mr Smith said the university’s recent announcements regarding the Joint Facility project delay and the partnership negotiations with the University of Canterbury had not affected his decision, a point supported by the incoming Chancellor.
“Steve’s leadership of the council and unwavering commitment to the university cannot be questioned,” said Mr Gemmell.
“His decision is for personal reasons and the Council is deeply saddened by this decision.”
Mr Smith described the timing of the announcement as “a perfect storm”, but with the university facing further change, now was the most appropriate time to step down.
Mr Gemmell takes over the role of Chancellor from 1 January 2019.