Teesside University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Croney OBE announces retirement

Teesside University has today announced that Professor Paul Croney OBE will retire from his role as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive at the end of August 2026, following more than ten years of transformative leadership.

Since joining the University in 2015, Professor Croney has overseen a period of exceptional growth, innovation, and recognition, positioning Teesside as a leading institution in higher education both nationally and internationally.

Reflecting on his time at Teesside, Professor Croney said: 'It has been the greatest honour of my career to lead Teesside University. Over the past ten years we have worked together to deliver a bold and ambitious vision; one that has placed students at the heart of everything we do.

'I am incredibly proud that our commitment to excellence has been recognised with a Triple Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, an Outstanding Ofsted judgement, as well as national awards for student experience. As a vital anchor institution for the Tees Valley, our research and knowledge exchange activities deliver transformative impact for businesses and the economy.

'We have invested over £300 million in transforming our campus, launched TU Online to expand access to flexible learning, and developed a thriving Professional Apprenticeship portfolio that supports regional and national workforce development. Importantly, we have achieved this growth without incurring any debt, demonstrating our strong financial stability and strategic foresight.

'These achievements are a testament to the dedication and talent of our staff, and to the spirit of innovation that defines Team Teesside. As I prepare to step down, I do so with immense pride in what we have accomplished together and with great confidence in the University’s future.'

Ada Burns, Teesside University Pro Chancellor and Chair of the University’s Board of Governors added: 'Professor Croney’s leadership has been truly transformative, and has shaped Teesside University into the dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking institution it is today.

'He has guided Teesside University through a period of remarkable progress, from the expansion of student numbers and the development of sector-leading digital learning platforms to the creation of world-class facilities and the delivery of outstanding teaching and outcomes.

'Professor Croney’s vision and leadership has transformed Teesside into an ambitious, inclusive, and internationally recognised university, deeply embedded in its community. Our expanding network of transnational partners delivers life-changing educational experiences to students across the globe. His commitment to excellence and innovation will leave a lasting legacy.'

Professor Croney joined Teesside University in May 2015 from Northumbria University in Newcastle where he held a succession of leadership roles from Dean of the Newcastle Business School, to Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning & Teaching, and, latterly, as Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

In 2022 Professor Croney was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his commitment to over a 30-year career in higher education, throughout which he sought to create educational opportunities that transform lives and economies, while putting students at the heart of the learning process.

The University will begin the process of appointing a new Vice-Chancellor in the coming months.

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