The Principal's key responsibilities

Summary of the Principal’s key responsibilities

Provide inspiring leadership across the University by setting a vision and strategic direction for the University that builds upon existing strengths and past successes.
Lead the strategic development of the University and the implementation of the objectives agreed with the University Court, and take primary responsibility for management of the affairs of the University.
Maintain strong governance structures, leadership teams, and management arrangements within the University, and be an effective chair of a range of Committees, including the Senatus Academicus.

Ensure that the University is well managed financially and that its future is sustainable and that its ambitious estates strategy delivers for future generations.
Ensure that excellence with impact is delivered across research, teaching and commercialisation and knowledge transfer.
Establish and maintain outstanding communications, both formally and informally, across the institution observing the highest standards of integrity, objectivity and honesty in the execution of all responsibilities.
Ensure that the University is adaptable and that it is well placed to successfully respond to future demands on the sector.
Ensure that the University benefits from a diverse student and staff body by attracting, developing and retaining people with the greatest level of talent.
Ensure that the University’s senior team provides effective and accountable academic and administrative leadership.

Further the best interests of the University by building constructive and positive relationships with key external stakeholders including Scottish and UK Governments, the City of Edinburgh, industrial partners, and international bodies and partners.
Promote a strong global perspective, advocating the University nationally and internationally, with particular emphasis on leading the collective effort to build strong relationships with relevant Institutions and funding bodies.
Provide outstanding representation and promotion of the University, locally, nationally and internationally.
Lead on securing philanthropic and charitable gifts from individuals and organisations to enhance the University’s research, teaching, student experience and reputation.