Ralph Findlay, chief executive of Marston’s, has been named as the next pro-chancellor of Keele University.
He will initially join the University’s Council in April before taking the role of pro-chancellor and chair of Council from 1 August 2014, for a four year term.
Keele University vice chancellor professor Nick Foskett said: “This is a key role within the University structure and in Ralph Findlay we will have a highly experienced business leader, who will make a major contribution to the success of Keele as we look to the future and plan our strategy for the years ahead.
“We launched a national search to find our next pro-chancellor and from an exceptionally strong field of candidates Ralph was unanimously recommended. Marston’s priorities for differentiation, innovation and operational excellence match our own values very closely and as such we believe that Ralph will make a significant impact as the higher education sector continues to face many uncertainties and we look to meet the challenges ahead.”
Findlay said: ”I have been impressed by the people I have met at Keele, their enthusiasm, and the plans in place to develop the University further from a strong base. The opportunity to work with Keele is attractive, and I believe that I can assist in developing appropriate responses to some very significant challenges in higher education.
“The fact that Keele is in Staffordshire is relevant to me: Marston’s is a national business, but our heart is in the Midlands. Helping to champion a respected university in the region appeals.
“I am interested in what the University does, and the wider contribution made to society by institutions such as Keele. At Marston’s, we recruit graduates each year and many of our people are below the age of 25: this is a difficult time for young people to find suitable employment, and I am keen that, at Marston’s, we do what we can to help.”
