Vice-Chancellor Professor Lynn Dobbs to retire

London Metropolitan University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lynn Dobbs announced her plan to retire at the end of the year.

Date: 23 January 2024

In a heartfelt message to the London Met community, Professor Lynn Dobbs announced her intention to retire by the end of 2024, after six transformational years as the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive. 

Expressing mixed emotions, Lynn conveyed both excitement for the next chapter of her life and sadness at leaving a role she loves. She thanked colleagues for their dedication during challenging times, particularly through the pandemic, which has left London Met in a stronger position. 

“It is rare to come across a group of colleagues so dedicated to the collective vision of driving positive change and I am honoured to have worked with each and every one of you. The effort you put into helping our students be successful, your commitment to London Met’s vision and the really vital role you have each played in our success is commendable,” she commented. 

Tijs Broeke, Chair of the Board of Governors, bid farewell to Lynn, acknowledging her transformative leadership. “Under her leadership, the University has doubled its turnover, student numbers have increased by 65% and improved student outcomes, solidifying its place as a leader in education for social justice.”

“Lynn has guided the university to a strong and secure position that we can now build on. In the search for Lynn's successor, we will ensure stability throughout the transition.”  

A dedicated academic and leader

Over the course of her distinguished career, Professor Lynn Dobbs has forged a professional reputation as an academic, researcher and leader with a strong passion for tackling social exclusion and raising the educational aspirations of young people. Lynn's research has impacted business developments and public policy at local, national and international levels. 

Since her appointment as Vice-Chancellor, in October 2018, the University has seen an incredible transformation with income doubling, domestic student numbers rebounding to sustainable levels and a re-emergence into the international student, alongside a number of other significant achievements. 

Search underway for our next Vice-Chancellor 

The University has initiated the search for Lynn's successor, ensuring a seamless transition and stability. As the search progresses, the University remains dedicated to maintaining its impactful role in fostering knowledge and championing social justice within the community and beyond. 

The University’s Senior Leadership Team, together with our Board of Governors, is already engaged in the process of finding a suitable successor. Details of the process, which will involve students and staff, will be published in the coming weeks.