Professor Kamal Munir to return to teaching and research

After five years as Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor for University Community and Engagement, Professor Kamal Munir has decided to conclude his term in the role. 
 
During his tenure, Professor Munir has led a wide-ranging programme of work to strengthen the University's approach to people, community and institutional engagement. His leadership has included the development and implementation of a new People Strategy, the introduction of new promotion pathways, the creation of a new forum for heads of institutions, and major initiatives on hybrid working and dignity at work.  

He has also played a central role in guiding the University through an exceptionally challenging period that encompassed the COVID-19 pandemic, industrial action, and a range of high-profile institutional issues, working collaboratively with colleagues across the collegiate University to build trust, strengthen institutional capability and support lasting organisational change.  

Professor Munir has decided that, after completing five years, this is the right moment to return his primary focus to research and teaching, while also taking on additional caring responsibilities over the coming months. He will return to his role as Professor of Strategy and Policy at Cambridge Judge Business School, where he has been a member of the faculty for 25 years. He will also continue as a Fellow of Homerton College, and as one of the University's two trustees of the newly established Rokos School of Government. 
 
Interim arrangements will be put in place, and a search for Professor Munir’s successor will then follow in due course. 
 
Professor Munir said: "Serving as Pro-Vice-Chancellor has been one of the greatest privileges of my academic career. I have had the opportunity to work with outstanding colleagues across the collegiate University on issues that matter deeply to our community, and I am immensely grateful for their commitment, wisdom and support. I have been especially fortunate to work so closely with colleagues in the HR Division, whose professionalism and dedication have been central to so much of what we have achieved together, alongside the many colleagues across the University who have contributed to this work.

“After five rewarding years in the role, this feels like the right time to hand on the responsibility. Over the coming months I will also be taking on additional caring responsibilities, and I am grateful to the University for its understanding in relation to these. I look forward to returning my full attention to research, teaching and mentoring at the Cambridge Judge Business School, while continuing to contribute to the wider University through my roles at Homerton College and the Rokos School of Government." 
 
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Deborah Prentice, said: “Kamal has provided exceptional leadership during one of the most demanding periods in the University's recent history. His judgement, integrity and ability to bring people together have been invaluable in helping the University navigate complex challenges while strengthening our community for the future.  

“His leadership has left a lasting legacy across many aspects of University life, and we are deeply grateful for his outstanding service. He is a popular and respected figure across the University, and far beyond, and we are delighted that he will continue to contribute to the University in a number of important and valuable ways.”