Plymouth Argyle chairman James Brent appointed to university role

James Brent will take up his position at the university on 3 November

Plymouth University has announced Pilgrims boss and businessman James Brent as its new chairman of governors.

The university has been in turmoil after a boardroom feud left it without its two most senior figures.

Vice chancellor Wendy Purcell is currently suspended while complaints about her conduct are investigated.

William Taylor, the former chairman, resigned following claims of sexual harassment, which he has "categorically" denied.

'Turbulence'

Mr Brent, who is chairman of Plymouth Argyle Football Club and the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, said: "All successful organisations have difficult chapters in their histories; in recent months we have had one of ours.

"It has played out in a very public way and I have seen hurt to several people who have provided years of dedicated service to the university.

"I hope, as we move forward, everyone will respect and celebrate the success of the institution and the students we serve, who are at the heart of what we do."

He will take up his position on 3 November.

Greg Clark, Minister for Universities, Science and Cities, said he hoped the "turbulence experienced will be resolved quickly".

He said it would be "wrong" for the government to comment on an independent institution when investigations were ongoing.

Timeline of events

• 29 May - The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) is notified by the university of an internal investigation into the conduct of the vice-chancellor

• June - HEFCE contacted by a source at the university about a "governance crisis" and requested intervention

• 18 June - HEFCE visits the university and recommends an external review of governance

• 2 July - It is revealed the vice-chancellor had been suspended pending a review

• 12 August - The university's board of governors says it is "united" behind the review process

• 13 August - The university "categorically refutes" claims governance is "in crisis"

• 14 August - Pro-chancellor Barbara Bond leaves

• 15 August - Mrs Bond claims she was "forced out" as a result of the dispute

• 20 August - Chairman of governors William Taylor accused of sexual harassment, which he denies

• 21 August - Mr Taylor says he will "stand aside" while allegations are investigated

• 23 September - Details of the claims against Mr Taylor revealed, including allegations of unwanted touching

• 30 September - Mr Taylor resigns

• 7 October - Plymouth University announces James Brent as its new chairman

Sources: HEFCE report and BBC News