The University of Southern Queensland’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill Lovegrove has announced his retirement from the position at the end of 2011.

As the University's longest serving Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Lovegrove said he had confirmed his intention to retire at the end of this year.

USQ Chancellor Mrs Bobbie Brazil said that Professor Lovegrove will formally retire from his position on 31 December 2011.

The Chancellor thanked Professor Lovegrove for the contribution he has made to the University and wished him well for the future.

'Professor Lovegrove has led the University of the past eight years and in that time has contributed much to the development of the University and its place as a leading regional higher education provider,' Mrs Brazil said.

'In recognition of that contribution Professor Lovegrove will be awarded an Emeritus Professorship.' .

The Chancellor said the University has commenced the process of identifying a replacement for Professor Lovegrove and has engaged an executive search firm to assist with the recruitment of a new Vice-Chancellor and President.

A farewell function for Professor Lovegrove will be held later in the year.