The University of Greater Manchester’s governing body has ended the contract of George Holmes, who served as vice-chancellor for two decades. Holmes was initially suspended in May last year following the completion of an external investigation commissioned by the institution. His employment has now been formally terminated, with staff and students notified of the decision earlier this week.
Holmes’s position became untenable following investigative reports that detailed allegations of bullying, racism, and fraud raised by whistleblowers. In response to his termination, the 65-year-old said the decision constituted a travesty and claimed he had been denied natural justice and due process. He stated his intention to clear his name and hold the university’s current management accountable for their actions.
The conclusion of Holmes’s employment was welcomed by Phil Brickell, the MP for Bolton West, who had been advocating for resolution of the matter. Brickell emphasized the importance of the university restoring confidence and ensuring strong governance as it approaches the critical student recruitment season. He noted that once the ongoing police investigation concludes, the institution should draw a line under the situation and focus on delivering educational excellence.
Greater Manchester Police has been investigating suspected fraud and bribery connected to the case. In July this year, three individuals were arrested as part of the probe, with authorities exploring evidence of more than £1 million in alleged fraudulent activity spanning a period from 2014 to 2025. Two men in their 60s and a woman in her 50s were arrested on suspicion of money laundering, with the men also facing fraud charges and one additional bribery allegation. All three have since been released on bail without being charged.
Acting vice-chancellor Greg Walker will continue in his interim role, while the governing body will meet to determine the process and timeline for appointing a permanent head of the institution, which was previously known as the University of Bolton.
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