THE woman who spearheaded the transformation of a York educational giant has announced she is to step down.

Professor Dianne Willcocks will leave her job as Vice-Chancellor of York St John University at the end of April next year, when she plans to focus on her involvement with other educational, cultural and public service organisations in York and North Yorkshire.

The university paid tribute to Professor Willcocks’ work, and announced the Board of Governors would be searching for a successor over the next 12 months to ensure a smooth handover.

Professor Willcocks joined York St John in 1999, originally as principal of Ripon & York St John. She led through massive changes, including relocation to a single campus in York, in 2001; the achievement of Taught Degree Awarding Powers; and the award of university title in 2006.

In 2008 she received a CBE for services to higher education.

She oversaw £65 million worth of investment, including new teaching space, arts facilities, student accommodation and learning resources.

Robin Hall, chair of governors, said: “Dianne Willcocks has successfully led York St John through very significant change over the last ten years. She has carried out that leadership role with an energy and passion which engages with all those around her. At the same time, she has maintained the university’s warmth of welcome and sense of community. We are saddened by her decision to step down and wish her well in her future ambitions.”

Professor Willcocks said: “I have had a fantastic time at York St John, working with such wonderful staff and students. It is a very special place which has achieved so much over the last few years and is well positioned to build on that success. I am sorry to be leaving but I am also looking forward to enjoying my many other interests beyond the university.”

Professor Willcocks is a member of the Board of the Higher Education Funding Council for England (Hefce), chairs the Action on Access Forum and is a trustee of the Council for Industry and Higher Education and the Higher Education Academy.

Locally, she is actively engaged with the Yorkshire Film Archive, York at Large – the York Cultural Partnership, and also chairs the York Theatre Royal Trust and Creative York. She is keen to continue her involvement in higher education and public service beyond York St John, as well as retaining her passionate interest in the cultural life of York and North Yorkshire.