New head at Shrewsbury's university campus

University Centre Shrewsbury has welcomed Professor Paul Johnson as its new Head of Centre.

He will oversee the academic and research activities at UCS, including six academic departments and three research centres, and programmes ranging from a Foundation Year through to undergraduate and post-graduate.

Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Chester, said:  “We had the opportunity to share the innovative thinking behind UCS with the Universities Minister in a private meeting this week organised by Daniel Kawczynski MP. Minster Donelan was most impressed by the focus and ambition of the University Centre and the support of Shropshire Council and the wider community.

"We discussed the role UCS can play in supporting individuals and businesses in the economic recovery following Covid-19 and our expertise provided to SMEs.

“I am therefore, delighted that Professor Johnson is taking up the role as Head of UCS as he is an innovative leader who understands the needs of Shropshire and the significance of UCS to the region.

"Under his leadership UCS will increase its portfolio of high quality, personalised provision including the launch of nursing courses in our new clinical skills facility.

"He will also ensure that the work of UCS’ environmental and digital research centres continue to address local needs such as flooding and rural health.”

In addition to his UCS role, Prof Johnson is the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the University of Chester, which has over 2000 students studying courses in art and design, performing arts, history and archaeology, English, modern languages and theology and religious studies.

Prior to joining the University in 2018, Prof Johnson was Head of the School of Performing Arts and Associate Dean (Quality and Partnerships) at the University of Wolverhampton. There, he was responsible for academic developments across the arts and led work with academic partners internationally.

Previously, he was Head of Department and Course Leader and taught on drama and performing arts programmes at several higher education institutions. He has also been external examiner or advisor at 14 different institutions.