Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has confirmed Lisa Mann as its permanent Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer. The appointment was announced by the university’s Board of Governors, with Mann officially taking up the role on March 1, 2026.
Mann had been serving in the position on a temporary basis following the retirement of her predecessor, Paul Gough, in December 2024. She initially joined AUB in December 2022 as Executive Director of Innovation and was later promoted to Deputy Vice-Chancellor in 2024.
Speaking after her appointment, Mann expressed her gratitude and commitment to the university. “It is a great honour to be appointed Vice-Chancellor and CEO of AUB,” she said. “In recent years, the university has worked hard to evolve, innovate and grow, strengthening its position as a leading destination for nurturing creative talent and preparing students for successful careers in the arts.”
Before joining AUB, Mann held senior roles in both public and private higher education institutions. She served as head of higher education at the Fashion Retail Academy, a college established by brands including Next, Marks & Spencer, F&F, and Experian. She also worked as Principal Academic Director at the Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design, where she expanded the academic portfolio, launched online courses, and developed global executive education programmes for Burberry.
Dorothy Mackenzie, Chair of AUB’s Board of Governors, welcomed the appointment, saying the board was “thrilled” to confirm Mann as the university’s permanent leader. She noted Mann’s extensive contributions as Executive Director of Innovation, Deputy VC, and interim VC and CEO.
“The board is confident that Lisa brings the commitment, focus, values and leadership capability required to guide AUB through the development and delivery of the university’s new strategy and to ensure its long-term sustainability and success,” Mackenzie said. She added that Mann’s “strong commercial insight, proactive mindset, and passion for making quality higher education available to all” made her the ideal leader for the university.
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