MediacityUK boss at University of Salford quits

The man who was supposed to be leading the University of Salford’s links with MediaCityUK has quit to return to London.

John Holland joined the University in January 2009 as University Media City Director. His role included setting up new joint courses and enterprise training for students and placements within the BBC.

His appointment was described back then, by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Harloe as a “key development in the Unviersity’s vision for MediaCityUK.”

Holland earlier wrote in the University prospectus: 

"MediaCityUK presents an unprecedented opportunity of regional, national and international significance. In these economically challenging times, it's a massive display of confidence, with huge potential to bring jobs for graduates, prosperity for business, and improved quality of life for everyone."

However, the BBC’s former head of interactive TV and digital text services had never fully moved from the capital. He kept his family home there and now he'll return to London to run a media consultancy business.

A statement from the University reads:

"[John] played a pivotal role in preparing the University for the opening of its new state-of-the-art building in the heart of the MediaCityUK development at Salford Quays. John also developed a range of opportunities around private and public sector co-operation, establishing significant relationships with key partners including the BBC, BT, Autodesk and Nokia.
 
"John has played a valuable role in building a framework for the future of this pioneering venture. We wish him well for the future."

A spokesperson wasn’t able to tell How-Do whether they were looking for a replacement.

[Thanks go to Salford Star for the tip-off]

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