New academic leaders to drive forward 2035 Strategy

Marking 20 years since gaining university status, Solent has introduced a new academic structure built around four schools that reflect and strengthen the University’s distinctive specialisms.

As part of this development, two new permanent Deans have been appointed, alongside two Interim Deans who will provide leadership for a six-month period while a full recruitment process takes place.

The appointments are as follows:

• Sarah Radif, currently Head of the Department of Science and Engineering, has been named Dean of the School of Technology and Maritime Studies. Sarah brings extensive leadership experience, having previously led the architecture, design and built environment subject group at Solent and served as Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Architectural Design and Technology.

• Professor Lois Farquharson has been appointed Dean of the School of Business, Law and Society. She joins from Bournemouth University, where she most recently served as Executive Dean and Professor of Leadership Practice.

• Dr Allan Taylor has been appointed Interim Dean of the School of Creative Industries. He joins from De Montfort University, where he was Head of Leicester Media School and Associate Professor of Media Production.

• Dr Beverly Joshua has been named Interim Dean of the School of Health and Sport. Dr Joshua joins Solent from Greenwich University, where she was formerly the Head of the School of Sciences.

The move to a school-based academic model is designed to sharpen Solent’s academic focus, support institutional growth, and accelerate delivery of the University’s 2035 strategy. This strategy sets out Solent’s ambition to become the UK’s leading practice-based university over the next decade.

Located in the heart of Southampton, Solent is also aiming to expand its civic impact through the introduction of a new civic charter, which was launched earlier this year.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Knowles, welcomed the appointments, saying:

"I am delighted to welcome our new Deans and Interim Deans to Solent at such a pivotal time for the University. Their collective expertise, leadership and commitment to student success will be vital as we deliver on our 2035 strategy and strengthen our role as a practice-based institution with deep roots in our community.

“Together, they will help shape the future of our academic offer, support innovation, and drive forward our ambition to make a meaningful difference both locally and nationally."

Recruitment for the permanent Deans of the School of Creative Industries and the School of Health and Sport will begin in the coming months.