AFTER a period of significant change and development for Bangor University, Professor Iwan Davies has announced he will be stepping down from his role as vice-chancellor in September.

Professor Davies has successfully achieved a major transformation which has secured financial sustainability for the university and steered it through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Significant achievements have included the confirmation and early establishment of an independent North Wales Medical School at Bangor University, recognition of sustainability achievements by being ranked in the top 70 global universities, and a top 15 position in the UI General Metric World University Rankings.

Professor Davies said: “My time at Bangor University has been an exciting and fulfilling period in my career.

“I have delivered what I came to achieve and have established real momentum; now is the right time to think about handing the baton over to the next vice-chancellor.

“The university has so much to offer as the university of and for North Wales.

“As I retire from this role and move on, I intend to remain engaged in the development of higher education policy in Wales and in that regard, will retain an interest in the future success of the university.”

Chair of Bangor University Council, Marian Wyn Jones, said: “Iwan has demonstrated outstanding leadership.

“Through clarity of vision and energy, he has created an ambitious strategy and delivered a solid financial platform which will provide a strong foundation for his successor to shape and develop as we emerge from the pandemic.

“I am delighted by the progress we have made under his leadership.

“Iwan will be sorely missed by all, but his enormous contribution will continue to advance and improve our position as a research-led university of and for North Wales.

“We now start the exciting process of appointing a new vice-chancellor who will bring energy and drive to build on the outstanding achievements of recent years.

“The executive team is well placed to ensure a stable transition for continuing, sustainable success.”