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.”