The University of Sussex has appointed Professor Simon Thompson as Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International), with effect from January 2025. Professor Thompson is currently Head of the School of Education and Social Work.

Simon’s association with Sussex dates back to 1994 when he studied for his PGCE, then Masters and PhD at the University. After a number of years as a teacher, Simon returned to Sussex as a PGCE History Tutor in 2002, and has subsequently taken on a number of leadership roles including Director of Initial Teacher Education, Head of Education and Deputy Head of School. He has been Head of School since 2021.

Working closely with Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement, Simon will be responsible for developing, coordinating and driving the University’s strategic internationalisation activities. Alongside planning and shaping our approach to the recruitment of international students, he will play a key part in the establishment and development of global partnerships that maintain and strengthen the University's international profile. The new role is a 0.5 full time equivalent commitment, and Simon will also continue to engage in teaching, supervision, partnership and scholarship activities in Education and Social Work.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Sasha Roseneil said: “The Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) role is crucial for Sussex’s global future, focusing on international recruitment and creating new, and strengthening existing, overseas partnerships. Simon’s proven capabilities and experience of working with our communities worldwide makes him an excellent choice for this important role.”

Robin said: “Simon has a deeply held commitment to celebrating and strengthening Sussex’s international outlook and global profile. As well as developing innovative and highly collaborative approaches to engaging with our overseas partners, he communicates his care and enthusiasm for supporting the experience of current, former, and prospective Sussex students from all around the world. I look forward to working with him to increase the visibility and impact of Sussex’s extensive international connections.”   

Michael Luck, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost said: “I would like to thank Simon for his excellent leadership of the School of Education and Social work, and congratulate him on his new appointment. I am glad that the School will continue to benefit from his expertise even while he is in his new role.”

Simon said: “It has been such a privilege to have led the School of Education and Social Work and I have enjoyed working with, and learning from, its faculty, Professional Services staff and students. Establishing mutually beneficial global partnerships and engaging with our talented international communities is so often a highlight of my professional life at Sussex and I’m looking forward to developing this further with and across Departments, Schools and Faculties. The importance of an ethically informed and impactful approach to global engagement is central to the University’s emerging strategy, Sussex 2035, and I hope that with others we can realise its ambitions.”

Arrangements for the role of Head of the School of Education and Social Work will be announced before Simon starts his new role in January 2025.