Swansea dean Nigel Piercy resigns with immediate effect

Prof Nigel Piercy had run the school since 2013

Nigel Piercy has resigned as dean of Swansea University's School of Management with immediate effect.

Prof Piercy told staff he was leaving his role in an email on Friday, citing "differences" with the university.

The BBC understands his son Niall has been suspended as pro-dean and Prof Marc Clement will take over the as acting head of the school from Monday.

Earlier this year, BBC Wales heard from university staff who voiced unhappiness about their treatment at work.

At the same time, it was announced an internal inquiry was under way after staff complaints were made.

Several former and present members of School of Management staff spoke to BBC Wales and made allegations of harassment and threatening behaviour they had experienced at work.

Some staff described the school as being run as a "dictatorship".

Earlier this year, Sir Roderick Evans, a pro-chancellor at the university, conducted a review into the running of the school after a request by the university's council.

He found the staff complaints "were sufficiently consistent and credible as to require investigation" and in May it was understood that an inquiry had been launched.

After the announcement of the inquiry, past and present members of the school questioned why the senior management team had not stepped in sooner.

Swansea University confirmed on Friday that Prof Piercy had stepped down as dean.

Sir Roger Jones, the chairman of Swansea University Council, said the new dean "will be charged with building morale within the department and creating an environment where people will continue to come and work".

He described recent events as "such a tragedy".

Bethan Jenkins AM says questions need to be asked of the university

Sir Roger, a former BBC Wales governor, said the performance of the university "more than superseded" such problems.

The investigation into the school of management did not need to be completed in order for Prof Piercy to step down, said Sir Roger.

South Wales West assembly member, Bethan Jenkins, was also contacted by individuals at the university.

She said: "Hard questions need to be asked of the university itself, which has provided weak and unacceptable leadership to both its members of staff and to students at the School of Management during this time.

"This period in the university's history has done no favours for its reputation, and it is the people at the top who must shoulder the responsibility for that."

The University and College Union, which represents those working in higher education, declined to comment.