Canterbury Christ Church University has appointed Dr Robin Baker as their next vice chancellor.

Dr Baker, who now holds the same post at Chichester University, will join Christ Church in September.

He succeeds Prof Michael Wright, recently awarded the CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list, who is retiring.

His appointment was approved at a university board meeting last Thursday, chaired by pro chancellor Peter Hermitage.

He said: “I am delighted to welcome Robin to Canterbury Christ Church University.

“He has the experience and expertise to lead the university, and to build upon the achievements of Prof Michael Wright. I look forward to working with him.”

Dr Baker previously held the post of pro vice chancellor at Kent University, between 2005 and 2007.

His appointment also follows an extensive career in cultural diplomacy, holding a number of posts within the British Council, including his final role as deputy director-general.

In accepting the post, Dr Baker said: “I feel very honoured to be appointed the next vice chancellor of Canterbury Christ Church University. It is a highly successful and exciting institution deeply committed to the transforming power of education.

“I look forward to building on the extraordinary achievement of Michael Wright and to re-establishing my close connections with the city of Canterbury and the county of Kent.”