A statement from the Vice-Chancellor on the University’s consultation outcome

In May, I announced the launch of a strategic transformation programme at Oxford Brookes. This included a proposal to create a new faculty structure for the University, by reducing the number of faculties from four to two and reducing the number of senior management roles in the structure. The proposal put the roles of 20 staff members at risk of redundancy, and we entered into a consultation with those colleagues.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Group (VCG) met last week to discuss the feedback and alternative suggestions submitted by staff and Union representatives as part of the consultation. We received a lot of feedback from colleagues, students and trade unions during the consultation period and I am grateful to everyone who took the time to submit their suggestions. 

Having carefully considered all the proposals before us, VCG has agreed to continue with the proposal to move to a two-faculty structure, as we believe this will both support our future financial sustainability and ensure our portfolio of programmes remains fit for the future needs of students. VCG has also decided to proceed with the proposed changes to the senior management structure, and these will go live on 1 October 2024. 

VCG also agreed with feedback that the portfolio review process is important and should be prioritised. We will ensure that as many colleagues as possible are able to feed in to this development process. 

Work will now continue to start the transition to the new structure. We are continuing to discuss other areas of feedback with our staff, and will provide support to all colleagues including those directly affected by these changes. 

Professor Alistair Fitt
Vice-Chancellor