THE appoints new chief executive

Times Higher Education has announced the appointment of a new chief executive, as the business “looks to the next phase of growth, to further its mission of helping higher education deliver transformational teaching, research and innovation”.

Paul Howarth joins THE from Law Business Research, a leading provider of business information, legal analysis tools and networking events for law firms globally, where he was CEO for four years.

He has previously worked for the Financial Times, Pearson Education, the educational publisher Nelson Thornes, and the international student pathways business at Kaplan.

He said of this appointment: “Not many brands can connect universities on a global level. With powerful data-driven insights into university performance and five decades of expertise in the sector, THE is ideally positioned to maximise on opportunities behind the continued growth of higher education around the world. This is a remarkably exciting time to be joining the business.”

Mr Howarth joins THE after a transformational period for the business, in which it has transitioned to become a leading provider of data products to universities around the world.

It has also developed a high-profile network of events under the THE World Summit Series, which bring together academic and institutional leaders, alongside its international content, branding, consultancy and jobs businesses.

The new chief executive replaces Trevor Barratt, who has led THE since 2014.

Chris Stibbs, THE’s chairman, said: “These are exceptional times that require dedication and commitment as well as strong leadership and I am delighted that Paul is joining the team as CEO.

“Paul is a high-calibre individual whose experience in the education sector and in businesses with a similar focus on content, data and rankings makes him an excellent fit.

“I would also like to thank Trevor, who has overseen the transformation of the business in recent years. Everyone at THE wishes him well for the future.”