Former Principal of Bowland College, Joe Thornberry, has had his grievance against Professor Amanda Chetwynd rejected. The grievance against the Provost for Student Experience, Colleges and the Library relates to Thornberry’s treatment by the search committee set up to find a new Bowland Principal in the interviews for the position in Week 7, Lent Term 2013-14.
Thornberry was one of three candidates who had put their name forward for the position, none of whom have subsequently been appointed. Many sources have alleged that the procedure by which the committee made its decision featured a range of peculiarities. One such peculiarity was the apparent need for unanimity in decision-making, a rule allegedly introduced by the Chair of the committee, Chetwynd, partway through proceedings. It is understood that a majority of the search committee favoured the appointment of Thornberry.
However, a member of University Council appointed by the Vice-Chancellor to rule on the grievance has cleared Chetwynd of any wrongdoing.
