University of Brighton appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Tom will take up his post on 21 July 2025. He is currently Chief Operating Officer at the University of Roehampton where he leads a wide range of professional services and oversees the four colleges of the university.

Prior to this, Tom worked at UCL for five years, initially joining in 2015 as Director of Planning and latterly as Director of the Professional Services Transformation Programme. He led a significant portfolio of change across finance, procurement, IT, HR, estates, student experience and research support, amongst others.

Earlier in his career, Tom worked at King’s College London on strategic projects and faculty professional services and spent a decade as a management consultant working with universities and central government.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom Rowson said: “I'm hugely excited about taking on this new role and contributing to the next stage of the University of Brighton’s journey.

"The thing that most attracted me to this role is the university’s mission to unlock potential through education, irrespective of people's background and barriers they face. This is something that is close to my heart and which has always driven me in my work.

“I'm really looking forward to listening and learning about Brighton, and to collaborating closely with students and colleagues to continue to improve how we work together to deliver amazing results."

Professor Donna Whitehead, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton, said: "Tom's extensive experience and commitment to our mission make him an ideal fit for the University of Brighton, and I’m absolutely delighted that he will be joining us as Chief Operating Officer.

“As a key member of the university’s executive team, Tom will be responsible for a number of our professional services and will take a lead role in driving our transformation plans.”