A city university chief is to remain in his role despite union criticism he did not go through a recruitment process.
Robert Gordon University said principal Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski will step down at the end of the month, and will be succeeded by current deputy principal Professor John Harper.
Prof Prondzynski expressed “deep regret” after a probe conducted last month found he did not declare his business relationship with newly appointed vice-principal Gordon McConnell.
University and College Union (UCU) Scotland slammed what they called a “jobs for the boys” approach. UCU Scotland official Mary Senior said: “It is disappointing to learn of Professor von Prondzynski’s resignation.
“While we’ve not agreed on everything, particularly at a local level, he has made a significant contribution to higher education in Scotland.
“It is ironic that while he made such a huge contribution to improving university governance, his former university is shoe-horning in his replacement without any recruitment process.
“It is particularly galling to see this ‘jobs for the boys’ approach at a time when there is considerable debate about the need for more diversity in senior positions in universities and society at large.”
A spokeman for RGU said: “Prof John Harper’s appointment was in line with the university’s recruitment procedures.
“The board acted decisively in securing stability and continuity for the university in the appointment. Prof Harper was the ideal candidate, having previously held the position of interim principal for 12 months, proving to be very effective at the role.”