TU Dublin president to stand down after financial turbulence at university

The President of TU Dublin is to stand down at the end of May. Professor David FitzPatrick emailed staff today informing them of his decision.

It follows a period of financial turbulence at TU Dublin, which was formed after the merger of the various Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) colleges in 2019. The Higher Education Authority has been working with the institution to address a financial shortfall at the university.

Professor FitzPatrick said that before he stands down, he is committed to ensuring a financial recovery plan is developed "that will demonstrate a sound financial footing". He said he had made the decision to leave TU Dublin last year.

He will take up a role with the University of Nottingham in the coming months, becoming Provost and CEO of the University of Nottingham Malaysia from June 1st next.

Last month, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) mandated a formal review of TU Dublin's financial management and control. Following this, teaching staff at the university passed a number of motion of no confidence in Prof FitzPatrick, and he had been considered to be under some pressure in recent months.

In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, the TU Dublin Students' Union said it echoed "the sentiment that a change in leadership is overdue. The SU anticipates this change positively and looks forward to a renewed focus on the student experience."