SCOTTISH agriculture has been sent reeling with the news that Professor Bob Webb is to step down with immediate effect as SRUC’s principal and chief executive.
It is only 18 months since Professor Webb joined what was then SAC with the specific remit of forging a Scottish Rural College through the merging of the Further Education Colleges at Barony near Dumfries, Elmwood at Cupar and Oatridge in West Lothian and SAC itself.
Only a month ago Professor Webb delivered his annual report and listed the achievements which had been made since the merger was completed just over a year ago.
Notably however, neither he, SRUC chairman Lord Jamie Lindsay or Education Secretary Mike Russell were willing to discuss the cost of the merger or the financial implications.
Professor Webb did nonetheless point to successful integration, a five-year strategic plan, and significant increases in research funding.
He also said he was looking forward to seeing SRUC progress towards its aim of gaining University College status.
SRUC chairman Lord Jamie Lindsay said: “On behalf of the SRUC board, I would like to thank Professor Webb for what he achieved during his time with SRUC.
“We are grateful for his contribution to our strategic positioning and progress.
“I wish to confirm that the board have agreed robust interim arrangements that will take immediate effect until the appointment of a new principal and chief executive,” he added.
“Janet Swadling, current deputy chief executive, will become the acting chief executive.
“Janet and the other members of the executive management team will be supported by the SRUC and SAC commercial board members.”
Lord Lindsay added: “During this interim period three members of the board will be available to provide specific guidance and support.
“Professor Grahame Bulfield, former vice-principal of the University of Edinburgh will oversee research matters.
“Professor Seamus McDaid, former principal of the University of the West of Scotland, together with Grahame will concentrate on academic matters, particularly as SRUC works towards its objective of obtaining University College status and Patrick Machray, vice-chairman and chief executive of the ANM Group, on commercial and financial matters.
“With this strong leadership team in place, it is very much business as usual and I believe SRUC will continue in its vital role supporting agriculture and the rural sector.”
An SRUC spokesman confirmed that no further statement would be made regarding the reason for Professor Webb’s sudden departure.