Former Dundee University principal who quit amid controversy lands new education role

A former Dundee University principal who quit in controversial circumstances has landed a new position strengthening the reach of universities abroad.

Andrew Atherton, who also held the position of vice-chancellor while at the university from January to November last year, has been appointed global director of Transnational Education (TNE) at Navitas.

The 53-year-old was suspended from his £254,000 a year position while management investigated claims he did not pay rent and allegations he bullied staff.

Weeks later he quit and is understood to have received six months’ wages in lieu of notice, amounting to £70,000 after tax and other deductions.

Navitas provides pathways for international students who wish to study in universities abroad, such as those in the UK and Australia.

It manages international campuses for Curtin University, Murdoch University, Edith Cowan University, and Lancaster University, where Mr Atherton worked from 2013 to 2018 as professor of enterprise.

Mr Atherton said: “Joining Navitas, a world leader in educational partnerships with universities, is an exciting and logical next step for me.

“All universities operate in a highly globalised environment, and those that succeed are embracing the diversity and opportunities that come from being transnational institutions.

“The best universities recognise the importance of engaging globally, and use this international outlook to inform their teaching, research and ethos.

“They see themselves as part of a global community, inspiring future generations through higher education and addressing the world’s challenges and problems through research.

“At Navitas, I am looking forward to working with universities worldwide to expand their TNE presence.”

Scott Jones, Navitas Group CEO, said: “International managed campuses present the greatest opportunity for today’s global universities and we know from our existing TNE operations, the benefits they can deliver for our partners.

“I am delighted to welcome Andrew to our team.

“As one of the world’s leading TNE experts, Andrew will help us create immense value and insight for our partners as we help them reach more students in more locations around the world”.

Dundee University has yet to reveal the full details of its investigation or confirm the reasons for Mr Atherton’s suspension.