UCU to investigate appointment of new Dean

by Jamie Jubon

Russell Merryman’s appointment as acting Dean of the Faculty of Media at the London College of Communication is to be investigated by the University College Union (UCU), amidst concerns about the length of time he has been a member of staff at the college.

Merryman was chosen to replace Julian Rodriguez, the previous Dean of Media, on a temporary basis two weeks ago, after allegations of “gross misconduct” were made against Rodriguez.

“An area of concern is the appointment of Russell Merryman as acting dean of the Faculty of Media," said UCU secretary at the University of the Arts (UAL), Ron Todd.

"Russell has only been here since October and yet has been promoted into acting dean. He hasn’t even completed his probationary year.

"In no job in any university or college, should somebody be promoted without completing his or her probationary year."

He added: “This is in no way a slur against Russell as a person or as a teacher - we are just concerned at the way he has been appointed. We will be investigating as, quite frankly, it stinks.”

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UAL rector, Nigel Carrington has rejected claims made by Todd, insisting: "All proper procedures have been followed."

An LCC spokesperson said on Merryman’s appointment: “Russell Merryman has been asked to step in as Acting Dean on a temporary basis, supported by a steering group of Heads of Department from the Faculty of Media, to ensure that the Media Faculty is effectively managed whilst the allegations against the Dean are fully investigated.’’

“The Head of College’s decision to move immediately to appoint an Acting Dean has the full support of the Rector.  Appointing an Acting Dean in this way and in these circumstances is entirely proper. In such cases, it is the Head of College’s responsibility to decide who is the best person to act temporarily in this capacity.’’

They added: “What UCU chooses to investigate is of course a matter for them.”

Associate dean also departs

Following the suspension of Rodriguez, the Associate Dean of Media Gary Naylor, also announced his departure, for “personal reasons.”

However, he stressed that his resignation was in no way linked to Rodriguez’s suspension: “My leaving arrangements were concluded before I knew anything about this matter.”

He described his 20 years at the college as a “privilege” and added: “Leaving any workplace is a difficult decision to make, especially after so many years, but I know that now is the right time for me and the university.”