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Principal

As Principal of the University of Aberdeen, the postholder is accountable to the University Court and holds overarching responsibility for the leadership, direction, and overall performance of the institution.

They will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership to secure financial sustainability, foster a positive and inclusive culture, and strengthen the University’s reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.

This is a pivotal leadership role at a critical time in the University’s history. The Principal will guide the institution through a period of change in higher education – building trust and confidence across the community and championing the University’s academic mission.

Strategic Responsibilities

Working in partnership with the University Court, the Senate, staff, students, and external stakeholders, the Principal will:

  • Advance an inclusive organisation committed to academic excellence.
  • Lead the evolution and implementation of the University’s Aberdeen 2040 strategy, aligning long-term ambitions with short- and medium-term delivery priorities.
  • Ensure financial sustainability through decisive leadership on income diversification and operational efficiency.
  • Promote and support excellence in education, research, and innovation across all disciplines, reinforcing the University’s academic reputation, responsiveness to global challenges and societal impact.
  • Support Aberdeen’s commitment to the student experience, ensuring the University is the institution of choice.
  • Strengthen the University’s income diversification through philanthropy, research, commercialisation and other strategic income generation.
  • Drive cultural transformation to foster an inclusive, open, and respectful environment for the entire University community.
  • Act as a powerful advocate for the University locally, nationally, and internationally – enhancing its profile, influence, and competitiveness.
  • Ensure strong governance and transparency in decision-making, maintaining alignment with the University’s values and legal responsibilities.
  • Provide leadership and development to the senior management team responsible for performance, quality, outputs and sustainability.
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