Buckinghamshire New University has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Professor Elizabeth Cleaver as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education and Digital), and Trevor Gabriele, as Finance Director.

Prof Cleaver will be continuing to improve the University's work with students' education and the experience they enjoy, as well as using digital technology to help shape a 'distinctive, innovative and effective educational offer'.

She will also take a lead on the University's work with the National Student Survey, its Teaching Excellence Framework, and its Access and Participation activity.

Prof Cleaver said: "I’m thrilled to be joining Buckinghamshire New University to take on this exciting portfolio of work.

"We live in very interesting times for Higher Education and as someone passionate about inclusivity and learning and teaching, I’m looking forward to working with staff and students to develop high quality educational experiences that transform lives.

"It’s very clear that there is a strong commitment to enhance the University's strengths in teaching and learning, and I hope to create a supportive environment where Bucks staff and students can be bold, creative and innovative in their educational activities."

Prof Cleaver, a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, has joined Bucks New University from the University of West of England, where she was University Director of Learning & Teaching. Over the last 12 years she has worked at the universities of Hull, Newman, and Birmingham.

Mr Gabriele has a distinguished track record, having previously worked at the universities of West of Scotland, Sunderland, and Northumbria.

Among his respinsibilities, he will be supporting the University's Executive Team and Council to ensure it has the financial resources to successfully implement its new strategy, Impact 2022.

Mr Gabriele said: "My attraction to the University is its mission to transform lives through education, a theme which resonates strongly with me personally.

"I also look forward to supporting the University to deliver the aims of the strategic plan, Impact 2022."

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Braisby, said: "These appointments will significantly strengthen our executive team and drive the success of Impact 2022 to ensure the University becomes more connected, permeable, student-and customer-focused, business-orientated, strategically aligned and, above all, impactful.

"They will enable us to maintain momentum and continue with the University’s ambitious change and growth agenda."