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Retirement Announcement: Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr

After dedicating his career to higher education in the creative arts, Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr, Vice Chancellor of Norwich University of the Arts, has announced his decision to retire in 12 months at the age of 60.

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Professor Ofield-Kerr joined Norwich in 2021, as the institution was emerging from lockdown, and led the development and delivery of a flagship strategy in collaboration with staff and students. “I am hugely proud of our collective achievements, particularly in light of the challenges we faced during the pandemic,” he remarked. “I am forever grateful that, after 20 years in senior leadership roles, I will close my full-time career at an incredible university that has reaffirmed my faith in the vital importance of institutions dedicated to creative arts education.” 

This announcement, made to all staff last week, follows extensive reflection and discussions with his family. “It has been a difficult and personal decision to make, but after careful consideration, I feel it is the right time for me to step back and embrace the next chapter of my life with my husband and our son,” said Professor Ofield-Kerr. “I have had the most wonderful career, absolutely committed to creative arts education, which will remain a cornerstone and joy in whatever comes next.” 

Throughout his tenure, Professor Ofield-Kerr has emphasised the vital significance of creative arts education and the University. “As we near the completion of our current strategy, I feel immensely hopeful about the continued role that Norwich will play in driving critical creativity and innovation in our region and beyond, actively shaping our world for the better,” he said. “Norwich University of the Arts still has, in my opinion, the most potential of any university I have worked with, because of its history, our wonderful community of dedicated staff and students, and the remarkable city that is our home.” 

As the search begins for his successor, Professor Ofield-Kerr has stated that the University will have his full energy, focus, and dedication. “Until my departure, I will remain fully committed to our shared vision, ensuring the future resilience and success of the University.” 

 In the coming year, the University community will celebrate Professor Ofield-Kerr’s remarkable career and his contributions to Norwich University of the Arts. 

“I am grateful for the continued support of our staff and students, and all the University’s friends and stakeholders. I look forward to our ongoing journey in the year ahead,” Professor Ofield-Kerr concluded. 

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