Professor Richard Black, BA, PhD

Richard joined the University in September 2023 having previously been Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Social Sciences at the University of Birmingham, and before that Pro-Director (Research and Enterprise) at SOAS University of London. A geographer and Professor of International Development, his research focuses on migration, environmental change and poverty. He has worked across numerous countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Europe, and has held a number of advisory roles within UN bodies and other international organisations.

As Provost, Richard provides leadership for strategic planning, the annual resourcing and budgeting process. This includes oversight of the university's emerging estates and digital strategies. He also leads the university's work on freedom of speech. Outside the University, Richard is Honorary Secretary and Trustee of the Academy of Social Sciences, a Marshall Aid Commissioner and trustee/advisor to two small international development charities.