The University of Greater Manchester has terminated the contract of its embattled vice-chancellor, Sir George Holmes, ending a period of uncertainty over the institution's leadership. The decision was confirmed in an email to staff and students on Wednesday, stating that Holmes is no longer an employee.
Contract terminated after suspension
Holmes, who led the university for over two decades, was suspended in May 2025 following an external investigation that alleged financial mismanagement and other misconduct. The university's governing body has now formally ended his contract, a move that Holmes described as a "travesty."
In a statement, Holmes, 65, said: "The decision of the university's governing board to terminate my contract in this way after over 20 years of loyal service to the University of Greater Manchester is a travesty. I have been denied natural justice, due process and the right to be presumed innocent of all that I have been accused of."
Whistleblower allegations and police probe
Holmes's position came under intense scrutiny after a series of investigations by Manchester's the Mill revealed whistleblower allegations of bullying, racism, and fraud. In response, Holmes had previously vowed to clear his name and hold the university's management accountable.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are investigating suspected fraud and bribery linked to the case. In July, three people were arrested—two men in their 60s and a woman in her 50s—on suspicion of money laundering, with the men also facing fraud and bribery allegations. GMP has explored evidence of over £1m in alleged fraudulent activity between 2014 and 2025, involving 60 transactions and more than 1m emails. All three have been released on bail without charge.
Political and community reaction
Phil Brickell, MP for Bolton West, welcomed the development, stressing the need for the university to restore confidence during the autumn recruitment period. He said: "Now that we know that George Holmes is no longer the vice-chancellor of the university, it is vital that the institution focuses on restoring confidence, ensuring strong governance and maintaining its commitment to students, staff and the wider community."
Brickell added that once the police investigation concludes, the university should "draw a line under this affair" and focus on stability, transparency, and educational excellence.
Leadership transition
The university confirmed that acting vice-chancellor Greg Walker will remain in post, and the governing body will meet to determine the process for appointing a permanent head. A university spokesperson confirmed Holmes's employment ended earlier this week.
