The University of Greater Manchester's governing body has terminated the contract of Vice-Chancellor Sir George Holmes. Staff and students were informed on Wednesday afternoon that Sir George was no longer employed by the institution, which was previously known as the University of Bolton.
Sir George, who had led the university for two decades, was initially suspended in May 2025 following allegations of financial mismanagement and other misconduct. These allegations reportedly stemmed from investigations published by Manchester's The Mill, which detailed claims of bullying, racism, and fraud.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are conducting an investigation into suspected fraud and bribery related to the case. In July 2026, three individuals were arrested on suspicion of money laundering, with two men also arrested on suspicion of fraud and one man on suspicion of bribery. All three have been released on bail without charge. GMP is exploring evidence of over £1 million in fraudulent activity between 2014 and 2025.
The university has stated that the current acting Vice-Chancellor, Greg Walker, will remain in his position. The governing body plans to meet to consider the process and timelines for appointing a permanent head of the institution.