UK announced Wednesday that Simon J. Sheather will be the next dean of the Gatton College of Business and Economics, pending approval by the Board of Trustees.

“We are delighted that Professor Sheather is joining us as dean of the Gatton College,” Provost David Blackwell told UKNOW. “His outstanding faculty credentials, his strong record of leadership, and the incredible level of energy he brings to this important position all are attributes, which will serve the college and our university very well.”

Sheather, a native of Australia, received numerous awards for teaching, research and mentorship during his 18-year tenure at the Australian Graduate School of Management before moving to the U.S.

Sheather told UKNOW that he was impressed by the students, faculty and facilities at Gatton.

“I could not be more excited about this opportunity,” he said.

Sheather is currently at Texas A&M University’s Institute of Data Science, where he is a professor and interim director. He is also the academic director of Analytics and Online Programs in the Department of Statistics.