The chief executive of the Engineering Professors’ Council, Johnny Rich, has been appointed inaugural director of ResearchPlus.

Rich will oversee the next stage of development of the grouping that was founded last year by 10 universities to give a voice to the UK’s research-focused institutions that are not in the Russell Group.

“I could not be prouder to take up this role supporting a strong collaboration of leading universities,” Rich said.

With more than 30 years’ experience in higher education, Rich has led the Engineering Professors’ Council for the past decade. He is also chief executive and founder of outreach organisation Push, which he will continue to run on a part-time basis.

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He has written various policy papers on universities, including work for the Higher Education Policy Institute, and has advocated for employers to contribute more to the cost of higher education.

Joining ResearchPlus on 1 August, Rich will be tasked with leading the development of the group’s strategic priorities and vision.

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ResearchPlus members are “all driven by the value of higher education as a public good”, he said, and “are essential to the success of the industrial and business ecosystems, public services, and community and cultural life in the places in which they operate”.

“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the sector and with government and beyond to create an environment where the power of what ResearchPlus universities do is maximised, recognised, and prized.”

The group is looking to expand its membership beyond its founders: the universities of Essex, Hull and Sussex; Keele and Ulster universities; the Open University; and four University of London members: Brunel, City St George’s, Royal Holloway and SOAS.

Sasha Roseneil, vice-chancellor and president of Sussex, said ResearchPlus was “delighted” to appoint Rich its first director.  

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“His extensive experience in higher education policy will be a huge asset to ResearchPlus, as we work to advance understanding of the vital role of ResearchPlus universities in the UK’s research and innovation system, and in delivering research-informed education and advanced skills for the public good”.

juliette.rowsell@timeshighereducation.com