Senior Businessman appointed Pro-Chancellor at Lancaster University

Lancaster University is pleased to announce that, after its Court meeting on 8th February, Bryan Gray MBE DL has been appointed as the University's Pro-Chancellor. He will succeed Brian Heron, who retires on 31 July 2003, after six years in the post.

Bryan Gray is well known in the region and has experience of Higher Education governance in a previous role with the University of Central Lancashire.

He is Deputy Chairman of Baxi Group Limited and Chair of Baxi Technologies, responsible for developing new domestic heating technology. He joined Baxi in 1993, having previously worked for ICI. He is also currently Chairman of the Northwest Development Agency, one of nine regional development agencies responsible for sustainable economic development, and Vice-Chairman of CBI North West.

"Bryan Gray's appointment continues the tradition of having outstanding Pro-Chancellors at Lancaster University", said Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Wellings.

"Bryan comes to post with a wealth of business experience and an outstanding record of leadership in complex organisations. We are delighted that Bryan has accepted this key role during a period of rapid policy change in the sector and at a time when there are a wide range of options to increase the University's impact".

The Pro-Chancellor, a senior lay member of the University, is responsible for chairing council and is involved in the strategic, financial and physical management of the University. The post is for five years.

Bryan Gray is a Preston North End FC supporter, and retired as Chairman of the club in October 2001. He lives in Parbold with his wife Lydia and has three sons.