OXFORDSHIRE County Council's chief executive is to be the new chairman of the board of governors at Oxford Brookes University.

Joanna Simons will replace Tim Stevenson, who will be leaving in the autumn after four years in the post.

She said: "I have always admired the contribution that Brookes makes to the region and am really pleased to be joining the board.

"I hope that we can build on the existing strong links between the University and the county council in areas like education, business development and health and social care."

Prof Janet Beer, university vice-chancellor, said: "With Joanna's extensive experience of leading local authorities and connections to the voluntary sector I know we have found someone who will help move the University to the next stage of our development."