Teesside University names new vice-chancellor

Teesside University has appointed Professor Mark Simpson as its next vice-chancellor and chief executive.

Professor Simpson will take up the role in September 2026, following the retirement of Professor Paul Croney OBE. 

He currently serves as deputy vice-chancellor and has held a number of senior leadership positions during his career at Teesside University.

Previously dean of the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Law, Professor Simpson has a strong reputation for teaching and learning. 

He is a principal fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Arts.

Professor Mark Simpson said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed as Teesside University’s next vice-chancellor and chief executive.

“Leading our University will be the greatest honour of my career, and I am excited to have the opportunity to build upon the many successes achieved under Paul’s outstanding leadership. 

“Teesside University is a force for good, a driver for change and innovation, and prides itself on delivering an outstanding learning and student experience.

“As a university community, we remain committed to our mission to transform lives and economies. 

“This is a moment to accelerate our momentum, seize new opportunities, and continue to build on everything that makes Teesside University exceptional.”

Professor Simpson’s appointment follows a period of national recognition for Teesside University, including being named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2025 and The Daily Mail Modern University of the Year 2026.

Professor Paul Croney OBE, current vice-chancellor, added: “I am extremely delighted that Professor Mark Simpson has been appointed to be my successor at Teesside University. 

“As the deputy vice-chancellor, he has both the academic credibility and leadership capability to lead the University.

“He, along with my other senior colleagues, has been instrumental in delivering the University Corporate Strategy over the last ten years and in achieving all our awards and recognition.”

Ada Burns, chair of the board of governors, added: “We are delighted to appoint Professor Simpson as our next vice-chancellor and chief executive. 

“His expertise, experience and passion for both the region and for Teesside University means he is uniquely placed to lead us into the final year of our Strategy and on to the development of our plan for the future.”

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