Plymouth University advertises for chauffeur despite spending cut backs

Plymouth University has raised eyebrows after advertising for a chauffeur to drive its Vice-Chancellor and her senior team just weeks after the budget announcement which spelled serious cut backs for the university sector.

Questions have been raised over the need for a chauffeur driven car for the Vice-Chancellor, however the University has defended its decision to advertise for the position, saying a chauffeur will enable the Vice-Chancellor and her colleagues to utilise their time while on the road.

A spokesperson for the University says the chauffeur driven car, which is used to transport the Vice-Chancellor to official meetings and events, means she and her team can work while travelling, meaning their time is used efficiently.

The spokesperson added that a private driver for the senior figures at the University is a “long established practice” and that it enables the Vice-Chancellor and her co-workers to utilise their time efficiently as they are often required to travel extensively throughout the South West on official business.

In the advertisement for the position of chauffeur it states that the University is looking for a “careful driver” who is also “trustworthy” and “discreet.” The chauffeur will be given a BMW to use to perform his or her duties and the salary will be between £17,606 – £19,185.