Professor Philip Plowden was appointed Interim Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of University of Staffordshire on 1 May 2026.
He brings extensive leadership experience from across the UK Higher Education sector, having most recently served as Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham City University from 2017 to 2023. During his tenure, he led the University through a period of strategic development, with a focus on academic excellence, student experience, and strengthening its role within the regional economy.
Prior to this, Professor Plowden was Deputy Vice-Chancellor at University of Derby, where he played a key role in institutional strategy and academic leadership.
He began his career in Higher Education at Northumbria University, where he spent almost 20 years in a range of senior roles, including Dean of the School of Law. His academic background is in legal education, and he has held a number of leadership positions spanning teaching, research, and faculty management.
Professor Plowden joins University of Staffordshire on an interim basis to provide leadership and continuity during a period of transition, working closely with the Executive and University Executive Board to support the institution’s ongoing priorities and strategic direction.