Candidates for next election
Information about the candidates for the next election in February 2023
The candidates appear below in alphabetical order:
Miss Manya Jane Buchan, MBA 2006
Proposed by Mr Anthony Beveridge, MA 1994, MSc 1999
Seconded by Mr John Tweedsmuir Buchan, BSc 1964
Third generation Edinburgh alumna. Former member of staff (14 years), latterly as the Head of Research Policy and Planning Services. Now working in software development, serving the higher education research sector and collaborating with institutions to help them meet statutory requirements and showcase their research expertise.
Lady Joyce Ethel Caplan, BEd, 1967
Proposed by Professor Stephen Hillier, DSc 1992
Seconded by Mr John Clifford, MSc 1990
I have taught at Edinburgh University for 30 years yet being part of the Business Committee has given me a new perspective. We are able to help strengthen University’s reputation both internally and in the wider community. I am seeking re-election as I have gained experience, which can be useful.

Miss Ann Catherine Cormack, MA 1984
Proposed by Colonel Mark Andrew Frederick Vincent, BSc 1981
Seconded by Mrs Janice Katharine Vincent, LLB 1982
I bring experience including:
- leadership and change management from a 30 year+ international business career, from marketing, communications and strategy to Global Executive Head of HR.
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knowledge of good governance and impactful championing from serving as Non-Executive Director at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and Chatham House.
Dr Mary Gunn, LLM 2014
Proposed by Mr John Donald Macdonald, BSc 1990
Seconded by Miss Eleanor Cauvain, MA 2021
I am passionate about the prosperity of the University as demonstrated from my 5 years' service as the President of Alumni SE Asia and in the Insights Programme. I have had 20 years of governance experience in higher education starting from serving on the Business Committee of Brown University.

Dr Melissa Highton, MSc 2002
Proposed by Professor Emma Hart, MSc 1995, PhD, 2002
Seconded by Miss Christine Wilson, MA 1998
I will offer the Committee my experience and expertise in equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), IT and digital, and global market reach. When elected, I hope to raise questions on matters affecting the prosperity of the University, particularly in relation to digital strategy and equality issues.

Dr David James Robert Houston, PhD 1976, MBA 1987
Proposed by Ms Krystyna Irena Szumelukowa, MPhil 2006
Seconded by Dr William Duncan, BSc 1972, PhD 1977
Originally a mathematical physicist, I forged a successful career in general management and consultancy. This fine University is leading the world with its Futures Institute, Data-Driven Innovation and an exciting City Region Deal. Let me help the Business Committee deal with these challenging new areas and others on your behalf.

Mr Alejandro Gustavo Fernandez Jullian, LLM 2017
Proposed by Dr Javier Hernandez Aracena, PhD 2014
Seconded by Mr Josef Thanit Budde, MA 2016, MSc 2017
I could contribute to the Business Committee by bringing my extensive experience in higher education and university governance, focusing on academic, public and international affairs. It would be an honour to serve the University, the students and its extended community, especially its Latin American one, in this important governing body.

Mr Victor Leopoldo Vazquez Orellana, MBA 2000
Proposed by Mr Victor Leopoldo Vazquez Orellana, MBA 2000
Seconded by Mr Arron Ashton, BSc 2013
Hospitality professional with background in finance, development, feasability, brand and operations. Lived and worked in Europe, Asia, North America and South America. Worked with five of the largest and most recognized global lodging companies. Recently joined a start up dedicated to integrating hospitality with sustainable farming and agrotourism.

Mr Magnus Peter Robert Willis, MA 1992
Proposed by Dr Mary Elizabeth Glasser, BSc 1992
Seconded by Mr Andrew Leon, BCom 1997
I have so much to offer! I set up and sold an 80-person digital insight and strategy consultancy. Before that I was a brand strategist in advertising. So I can help with issues relating to the EU business overall, plus specifics of brand strategy, marketing, communications, consumer research and digital.
