he previously worked at the university of manchester institute of science and technology (umist), rising to become professor of computer science (1995–2004) and its pro-vice-chancellor (2000–2004). he then joined its successor, the university of manchester, where he was vice-president (university development) from 2004 to 2006. before joining royal holloway, he was deputy vice-chancellor of the university of sussex (2006–2010).