Principal in rent row also facing probe into bullying allegations
University suspends principal in rent row
From yesterday’s Mail
A SUSPENDED university principal is facing accusations of bullying as well as failing to pay rent for his luxury university flat.
Professor Andrew Atherton, 53, was removed from his post at Dundee University in
September after a row over rent non-payment.
It is now understood Professor Atherton is also being investigated for his treatment of staff after a number of complaints, though it is unknown whether the two allegations are linked. External investigators have been brought in for the inquiry.
Professor Atherton took up his £298,000-a-year role in January after senior positions at Lincoln and Lancaster University, receiving another £40,000 as a ‘disruption’ allowance. Staff and students were emailed on Wednesday with news of the suspension but no reason was given for it.
The message stated that any further development was subject to ‘an internal process which remains to be completed’.
Tory North East MSP Bill Bowman said: ‘This is obviously an irregular situation but the university court has exemplary standards. I trust they will resolve their investigation quickly and without detriment to the daily lives of staff and students.’
A Dundee University spokesman confirmed that Professor Atherton had been suspended on September 13. He added: ‘That process includes an investigation carried out by someone external to the university. As is our policy in any disciplinary case, it would not be appropriate to comment further while the process is ongoing.’
It is understood Professor Atherton had been staying in University House with his wife, Helen, who was employed on campus in a newly created role at Entrepreneurial Scotland in July.
The organisation announced a ‘pioneering alliance’ with Dundee University in February – a month into Professor Atherton’s tenure – but a spokesman said her appointment had nothing to do with it.
A spokesman said: ‘The partnership with the Centre for Entrepreneurship at the University of Dundee, and the role supporting this initiative were in development during 2018 – prior to the appointment of Andrew Atherton as principal.
‘The agreement he signed on behalf of the university in February 2019 was agreed with the university prior to him taking up his role.
‘Helen Atherton was appointed by Entrepreneurial Scotland to the role of regional development manager following an open recruitment process.’
The interviews had been carried out by ‘members of the Entrepreneurial Scotland management team, with no involvement’ from Dundee University.
The spokesman added: ‘Mrs Atherton’s prior experience and relevant track record positioned her as the best candidate for the role. Her connection with the university’s principal was declared during the interview process and prior to her appointment.’
Professor Atherton could not be contacted for comment and Dundee University rector Jim Spence refused to discuss the principal’s suspension.