New executive dean for Coventry University’s Faculty of Engineering and Computing

Coventry University has appointed a new executive dean for its world-renowned Faculty of Engineering and Computing.

Professor Michael Fitzpatrick CEng CSci FIMMM is currently the Lloyd's Register Foundation chair in materials engineering and head of the Department of Engineering and Innovation at The Open University. He will take up the post on May 1st 2014.

Professor Fitzpatrick joins at a time of exciting developments within the faculty. His appointment follows the announcement of a pioneering new engineering and manufacturing institute established jointly with Unipart, which will offer students a unique opportunity to work on industry's front line, as well as a major collaborative research and development programme.

Professor Fitzpatrick's arrival also comes just a year after the faculty's state-of-the-art £55 million Engineering and Computing Building was formally opened by Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal.

The Faculty of Engineering and Computing scored particularly well in 2013's National Student Survey, with three of its departments scoring 90% or higher for teaching quality – as voted by students.

The appointment of Professor Fitzpatrick will build on these successes, strengthening the University's position as a forward-thinking, innovative institution applying fresh and original approaches to research, teaching and business engagement.

Professor Fitzpatrick said:

I am delighted to be leading this faculty at such an important time. The faculty has groundbreaking new facilities and a talented team of staff supporting the student experience and the research agenda. I am looking forward to using my experience to help it to grow further and flourish.

Professor Madeleine Atkins, vice-chancellor of Coventry University, said:

I would like to congratulate Michael on his appointment as executive dean. Michael has strong experience in the sector as an outstanding researcher and academic leader and I am sure that the faculty will continue to excel, offering a compelling learning experience for students, together with very high quality research.

For further information, please contact Alex Roache, external press and media relations officer, Coventry University, on +44 (0)24 7679 5050 or email alex.roache@coventry.ac.uk.