The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, has suspended its Vice Chancellor, Professor George Holmes, following a series of ‘serious’ allegations that have prompted an ongoing police investigation into suspected financial misconduct at the institution.
Professor Holmes—one of the UK’s longest-serving university leaders—was suspended alongside the university’s provost and a third senior academic staff member. The move comes in response to findings from an independent inquiry commissioned by the university, which followed a detailed exposé by The Mill, an external investigative outlet.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed that an investigation had been launched into “allegations of financial irregularities at the University of Greater Manchester.” The force said the probe was initiated after a review of whistle blower claims reported in The Mill and a subsequent report from the university’s own Fraud Response Panel.
The university’s statement, issued Tuesday, stressed that the suspensions are a “precautionary measure and do not imply any assumption of guilt.” The institution added: “The university was made aware of the report’s findings following its investigation into serious allegations raised in the media and subsequently in Parliament. This step was taken to ensure a fair and transparent process.”
Professor Holmes, who has led the university since 2005, is a prominent figure in the UK’s higher education sector. Appointed at the age of 36, he became the youngest university vice chancellor in the country at the time. He is currently one of the longest-tenured in the role, having served for nearly two decades.
Until December 2023, the institution operated under the name University of Bolton before rebranding to the University of Greater Manchester, following approval from the Office for Students (OfS).
The ongoing investigation gained further momentum in March when Lucy Powell, Leader of the House of Commons, told MPs that both the police and the OfS were investigating “serious allegations” of racism, bullying, and financial misconduct at the university. Her comments followed a statement from Bolton West MP Phil Brickell, who said he had been approached by multiple whistle blowers with additional concerns about the university’s internal practices.
Professor Holmes has a long and distinguished career in education and governance. Before joining the university, he held senior posts at Doncaster College and the University of North London. He has been a policy adviser to the UK government, a Fellow of the Institute of Directors, and a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester appointed by Queen Elizabeth II.
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He has also served on numerous boards, including the Octagon Theatre, Bolton School, Bolton Lads and Girls Club, and the ESSA Academy Trust, among others.
With over 11,000 students enrolled, the University of Greater Manchester now faces serious scrutiny over its internal governance, leadership practices, and financial accountability.
Dr Greg Walker has been appointed acting vice chancellor and interim accountable officer while investigations proceed. The university has declined to comment further, citing the need to respect ongoing internal procedures.
New Daily Prime will continue to provide updates as the investigation unfolds.
