Following the announcement that our Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, will not seek a third term as the leader of our University, we will shortly be starting the process of recruitment to appoint a successor and would like to hear the views of our students and staff.
Edinburgh is one of the world’s great universities and we regard the appointment of its next Principal as one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to us. As part of this process, we want to listen to our community so that we can identify a leader of the calibre, judgement and ambition required to guide the University through a period of profound change while building on its extraordinary strengths.
We are looking for someone who can inspire our staff and students, command confidence across our many partners, and represent the University both locally and on the international stage. This is a role that will shape Edinburgh’s future and its contribution to education, research and society for generations to come.
Getting involved
As part of the recruitment process, our appointed executive search firm WittKieffer is consulting widely across the University to understand perspectives and priorities for the appointment. They will be holding a series of engagement sessions with staff and students.
These conversations are an opportunity to hear what matters most as the University looks to the future. We are particularly interested in hearing views on the opportunities and challenges the next Principal will need to address, the experience and qualities they should bring, and the kind of leadership that will enable the University to meet its academic and strategic ambitions.
Book your place at one of the in-person conversations:
Or book your place at the online conversation:
If you cannot attend these sessions, we would still like to hear your views. Please complete the online consultation emailed to all staff and students before 5pm on Friday 30 October 2026.
Next steps
A Selection Committee, chaired by Dr Frank Armstrong FRCPE, Senior Lay Member of the University Court, will oversee the recruitment process. The consultations will help shape the final criteria and global search strategy for the new Principal. Following this process, the Senior Lay Member will present the Selection Committee’s recommendation to the University Court for approval.