Enterprising University Leader appointed to Teesside University Executive Team

Professor Craig Gaskell has been appointed as Teesside’s new Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise and Business Engagement) to drive the University’s enterprise, employer partnerships and commercialisation agenda.

Professor Gaskell brings a wealth of experience in developing and delivering strategic and innovation projects in higher education and in building highly productive partnerships with business and the public sector.

He is passionate about social mobility and the transformational impact of higher education and has already worked with the University as an educational consultant.

Professor Gaskell has been a senior leader in Higher Education for many years. He was a Dean at Hull University and has led several significant change and start-up projects in the sector, notably as Provost of Coventry University’s “CU Scarborough” and as founding Principal and Chief Executive of University Academy 92 (UA92) in Manchester. He is currently visiting Professor of Higher Education Enterprise at Lancaster University.

He will commence the Pro Vice-Chancellor role on 26 April and has been appointed on an interim basis for 12-months in the first instance.

Professor Gaskell succeeds the University’s highly respected Pro Vice-Chancellor and influential business leader Professor Jane Turner OBE DL, who sadly died last year.

Commenting on the appointment, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University Professor Paul Croney OBE said: “I am delighted that Professor Gaskell will be taking up the vital position of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise and Business Engagement).

“His knowledge of the sector, impressive experience, and strategic business expertise will enable him to drive the development of innovation, enterprise, and knowledge transfer at Teesside, as well as developing new partnerships and engagement opportunities.

“I am confident he has both the academic rigour and the enterprising outlook this role requires, and he will be a valued addition to the University Executive Team.”

Professor Gaskell said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Executive Team at this exciting time.

“Teesside is a fabulous University, with a clear and important mission. It is uniquely placed to support regeneration of the region, driving economic prosperity, and delivering life-changing opportunities in the communities it serves.

“It is also a great privilege to be trusted to build on the outstanding work of Professor Jane Turner.”

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