University welcomes new Vice-Chancellor

Released: 09.05.23

Plymouth Marjon University welcomes Professor Claire Taylor today as the new Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University. Professor Taylor joins Marjon from Wrexham Glyndwr University, where she served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Education.

Professor Taylor's academic background includes studying Music and Education at the University of Cambridge, qualifying as a teacher, and working with learners of all ages for a decade before becoming a primary school Headteacher. She then pursued higher education, earning her PhD at the University of Nottingham.

With a wealth of experience in senior leadership positions at values-based universities, including Bishop Grosseteste in Lincoln and St Mary’s University in London, Professor Taylor is committed to addressing social inequality and promoting individual and community flourishing.

As Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Plymouth Marjon University, Professor Taylor will be responsible for day-to-day leadership of the institution, driving the long-term vision, developing new academic programs, expanding into international markets, building research, and taking the university to net zero by 2030.

“I’m excited to join the Marjon community as Vice-Chancellor.” Said Professor Taylor. “I can’t wait to meet the dedicated staff and fantastic students who make the University so special and to learn more about the great work across learning, teaching, research, and enterprise activity. Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me to Plymouth and to the South West from across education, business and public services -  I look forward to working together to inspire positive change and growth for our region.”

Graham Raikes MBE, Chair of the Board of Governors at Marjon, commented: "Professor Claire Taylor is an outstanding appointment to Marjon. Her breadth of experience, clear vision and values mean that Claire is the ideal person to take forward the legacy left by Professor Rob Warner."

Professor Taylor’s appointment underscores the University's commitment to values-based education and social inclusion. Like Marjon, Glyndwr University is a values-based institution with an emphasis on social inclusion, and both institutions have outstanding student satisfaction ratings.

Professor Taylor's work as Chair of the Board for Alpha, a social housing provider on the Wirral, and as Interim Chair of the advisory board at Ty Pawb, Wrexham's flagship arts, markets, and community facility, further demonstrates her dedication to community development and social justice.

The Marjon community welcomes Professor Taylor and wishes her well in this new beginning.