Sir Andrew Witty, Chancellor of the University of Nottingham, has announced his plans to retire.

A former Chief Executive Officer of GSK and a Nottingham alumnus, Sir Andrew became the seventh Chancellor of the University in 2013.

He said: “Representing the University of Nottingham has been a privilege, witnessing the University’s international growth, expansion of its Nottingham home campus and ceaseless commitment to both student teaching and research excellence, has been inspiring.”

He will step down from the role later this academic year.

University of Nottingham President of Council John Mills said the University was extremely grateful for Sir Andrew’s contribution.

He said: “In his time as Chancellor Andrew has responded to the challenge of supporting the development of our links with business and our international agenda but most importantly, as an alumnus, he has invested time in inspiring our students to achieve and be aspirational in their ambition.”

President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Shearer West echoed his comments. She said: “We are extremely grateful for the contribution Sir Andrew has made to the University. From his time here as an economics student to his tenure as Chancellor, he has been an extremely important ambassador and advocate for us. We wish him well for the future.”

The Chancellor has a number of key roles, including ceremonial duties – playing a formal part in graduation ceremonies – and acting as an ambassador and advocate of the University in the UK and around the world. He also acts as a key adviser on matters of major strategic importance to the development of the University. It is an unremunerated role.

This year, for the first time, staff, students and alumni will be invited to make their nominations. More details on the nominations process, which opens next week, will follow.