STV chief excited about new role as GCU Chair

Rob Woodward, chief executive officer of STV Group plc, is to become the new Chair of University Court, the governing body of Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), with effect from 6 February, 2018.

Mr Woodward, who steps down from his role at STV on 31 December, 2017, is excited to be appointed to this position at GCU.

He said: "I am passionate about the higher-education sector and developing opportunities for young people, and am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of Court at GCU. I respect its values and ethos and look forward to supporting the Principal, Executive Board and staff in developing the University over the coming years."

Principal Professor Pamela Gillies CBE FRSE, said: "Rob has extensive experience of governance in higher education and is a gifted communicator. These qualities, coupled with his business acumen and demonstrable commitment to helping transform the lives and opportunities of our young people, mean he is perfectly suited to chairing GCU over the coming years. I very much look forward to working with him."

Professor Gillies also paid tribute to Hazel Brooke MBE, who steps down from University Court.

"The University owes Hazel a great debt of gratitude for the immense support she has provided as a lay governor, Vice-Chair and, most recently, as Chair of Court. Hazel's passion for the University's social mission, alongside its academic standing, has been exemplified throughout her 10 years with us. Hazel has led the governing body with a great deal of professional skill and personal authority. In doing so, she has made a huge contribution to the life of the University."

As well as taking up the position of Chair of Court at GCU, Mr Woodward will continue with his other commitments. He is Chair of the listed technology company Blancco and National Group Chair of Developing the Young Workforce which, on behalf of the Scottish Government, is leading work to support employer involvement in developing Scotland's young workforce. Mr Woodward is also a trustee of The Royal Television Society and a Commissioner of the Northern Lighthouse Board.

In 2014, a partnership was established between GCU and STV to provide students with learning opportunities and work experience within a live production environment supporting the delivery of a network of television licences secured by STV.