IUB graduate achieves top leadership post at major UK University
Profesor Osama Khan, an alumnus of Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), has been appointed the next vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of South Wales (USW), UK. He will assume office in May 2026.
Professor Khan, who completed his Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in finance and economics from IUB's School of Business and Entrepreneurship graduating as valedictorian with summa cum laude honours in 1999, becomes the first academic of Bangladeshi heritage to be appointed to the top leadership of a public university in Europe or North America.
He is currently serving as deputy vice-chancellor (academic) at Aston University. A former investment banker turned academic, Professor Khan also holds degrees from the University of Cambridge, Lancaster University, and the University of Surrey.
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He began his academic career in the UK as an associate lecturer at Cambridge and later held senior roles including pro vice-chancellor at the University of Surrey, as well as executive leadership positions at Solent University. He has taught at leading global institutions such as Surrey Business School, Cambridge Judge Business School, HEC Paris, Copenhagen Business School, and the University of Hong Kong.
Professor Khan brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education, with a strong record in institutional reform, student success, digital learning, and evidence-based academic governance. At Aston University, he has contributed significantly to academic transformation, employability outcomes, inclusion initiatives, and research impact. He has also played an influential role in shaping sector-wide policy on equity and student success in the UK.
His appointment highlights the growing global footprint of IUB alumni and reflects the expanding presence of Bangladeshi scholars in international higher education leadership.
