TWO newly appointed chief executives have joined forces to develop better relations between local government and further education.

Vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria, Professor Julie Mennell and the chief executive of Lancaster City Council, Susan Parsonage, are both the first women to be appointed to their respective roles.

The two met at the University’s Lancaster campus to discuss the potential for further development between the education and local government sectors.

Susan Parsonage said: “The education sector is central to the success of the local economy and it is vital that we continue to grow this important area.

“Students not only bring vibrancy and diversity, they help to create and maintain jobs and businesses.

“Many students also decide to stay on in the district once they have graduated, continuing to contribute to our future growth.

“By working closely with Professor Mennell and the university I believe that we will be able to develop many areas of mutual interest that will benefit the whole district.”

Prior to joining the university, Professor Mennell had held senior roles at Teesside and Northumbria Universities as well as the University of Sunderland.

Professor Mennell said: “Taking up the role of vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria is an exciting prospect.

“As the university enters its tenth year, it is clear to see how far it has come in a relatively short space of time.

“We might still be considered a young university, but we have established our credentials in the sector and are building a strong reputation, not least for the excellence of our graduates.

She added: “Meeting Susan today has generated a most valuable and productive dialogue through which we have identified a number of potential opportunities for shared development.

“Through our organisations, we plan to work together on these to deliver benefits for our communities across Lancaster and the wider region.”