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Professor Karen Stanton assumes role of Interim President and Vice-Chancellor

  • Written byPress Office
  • Published date 30 September 2025
Karen Stanton, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor, UAL | Photograph: Ella Joyce

Professor Karen Stanton has officially assumed the role of Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of University of Arts London (UAL) following a month-long transition period with James Purnell who was appointed Chief Executive Officer at Flint Global.

Prior to joining UAL, Professor Stanton was Interim Vice Chancellor at Bishop Grosseteste University, having previously served as Vice-Chancellor at York St John and Solent Universities. She joined UAL’s Court of Governors in 2023 but has stepped down to take on this interim role.

Professor Stanton assumes the role following the recent news that UAL had been named Specialist University of the Year in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide. The start of the 2024/25 academic year was also marked by the opening of UAL’s new School of Pre-Degree Studies in Lime Grove, Shepherds Bush - a significant investment in the future of creative education.

UAL will be running a full, global search to find a permanent President and Vice-Chancellor.

As a Governor, I saw firsthand the creativity and dynamism that make this institution so special. It is a privilege to now lead UAL and I look forward to working closely with our talented staff and students to build on our strong foundations and support the successful delivery of the University's ambitious strategy.

— Professor Karen Stanton, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor
Karen brings a wealth of leadership experience, and during her time as a Governor at UAL, demonstrated a deep commitment to the University’s vision. On behalf of UAL, I am delighted to welcome her as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor and look forward to working closely with her in this new role

— David Isaac CBE, Chair of Governors