University of Highlands and Islands appoints business leader Alastair MacColl as new chair of court
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THE University of the Highlands and Islands has appointed experienced university governor and business leader, Alastair MacColl, as its new chair of court.
Mr MacColl, who lives, works and has roots in the Highlands, is currently chairman and pro chancellor of Teesside University. He also chairs UMi, a national business solutions group, which he established as chief executive officer in 2007.
He replaces Garry Coutts who is standing down after six years of service to the university as rector and a further seven years as chair of court.
"I'm delighted to be joining Scotland's newest university at such an exciting time for our students, staff and academic partners," he said. "I can't wait to get started."
"Every one of our colleges and research institutions has a distinctive pedigree, based on transforming lives, empowering communities and strengthening economies. I look forward to building on those strengths to offer every student the opportunities they deserve and pioneer a prosperous future for our region."
His experience in working in a civic institution with a commitment to widening access, great teaching and a commitment to an outstanding student experience was pivotal to his appointment. He also played a leading role at Teesside University in generating economic growth and opportunity for all of the communities it serves.
The UHI says that "showed clear synergies with the mission of University of the Highlands and Islands which is currently initiating a new strategic plan with a ‘daring to be different' ethos". He was an outstanding candidate for the post according to Andrea Robertson, vice-chair of the university court who led the search.
She said: "Alastair's commitment both to tertiary education and our region made him stand out from the widely qualified pool of candidates for the chair of court role. His understanding of the potential future opportunities for the university alongside his business experience are closely aligned with our ambitions for the coming years and his previous higher education involvement will be of great benefit. We very much look forward to welcoming Alastair to the university court.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our departing chair of court, Garry Coutts for his 13 years of service to the university and I hope he will continue to be a valued supporter in years to come."
Mr MacColl's first day in his new role will be on August 1, as the university partnership starts its new academic year.
