The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Farthing

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Farthing, has been re-appointed for a second five-year term.

Professor Farthing, who has led Sussex for three and a half years, has accepted a second term as Vice-Chancellor after the University's governing body renewed his contract for another five years.

Professor Farthing's current five-year contract expires at the end of August 2012 and his new appointment lasts until September 2017.

Members of Senate (the University's academic body) and Council (the University's governing body) were invited to submit comments on the re-appointment, and to focus on Professor Farthing's "leadership of the institution since his start on 1 September 2007 and its impact on Sussex's performance against the strategic plan".

The responses were considered by a sub-group of Council and the chair of Council, Simon Fanshawe, then made a recommendation to Council this week that the Vice-Chancellor should be reappointed.

"I am delighted that Michael will be serving a further term and leading Sussex in the challenging work that lies ahead," said Mr Fanshawe.

"Michael's leadership of the institution and of his team has strengthened and improved the University - by any measure, whether it be world rankings, burgeoning student numbers or international competitiveness.

"His re-appointment is excellent news for the University and for our students and staff."

Professor Farthing said: "I look forward to continuing to lead our university at this important juncture in its life.

"The best part of being Vice-Chancellor at Sussex is working with the talented students and staff, all of whom are making a difference through their intelligence, integrity and commitment.

"I would not be anywhere else."