My career has been as a senior professional and policy leader in both government and higher education.
I have recently taken up a new role as Vice-Principal, Leadership Development in the University of Edinburgh, following over 9 years in the University’s Senior Leadership Team as University Secretary and Vice-Principal, Strategic Change and Governance. I have had particular responsibility for Human Resources, Strategic Planning and Change, Governance, Student Services and External Engagement. I have extensive experience of working in the senior executive team and of working with the University’s Board trustees (the Court) on assurance, strategy and engagement. Before that, I worked as a senior policy civil servant in both Whitehall and the Scottish Government.
My professional qualifications as an executive coach include an Advanced Practitioner Diploma from the Academy of Executive Coaching (2016); and Certificate in Team Coaching, Team Coaching Studio (2022); I also hold a Counselling Skills Certificate, University of Edinburgh (2013).
I have been motivated throughout my career by my deep desire to make a difference; and my belief in the transformational nature of continuous learning. I have benefited from the opportunity to attend a wide variety of leadership development programmes including:
- Executive Master in Change, INSEAD, 2021
- Advanced Management Programme, Harvard Business School, 2005
- The Art and Practice of Leadership Development, Harvard Kennedy School, 2018.
- Leadership for the 21st Century: Chaos, Conflict and Courage. Harvard Kennedy School, 2010
- High Potential Development Scheme, UK Civil Service, 2004-07
- Top Management Programmes, UK Civil Service and Higher Education Leadership Foundation
In Whitehall, much of my career was focused internationally, including leading and supporting international shipping and aviation negotiations; and in running international development programmes in South America, China and the Pacific. In Scottish Government, I focused on social policy – including as Director, Children and Young People; and Director, Learning; and on strategy – as Director, Strategy and Ministerial Support. I was also Head of Policy Profession for the Scottish Government.
I have had experience as a Non-Executive Director in the creative arts and financial sectors. I am currently serving as a member of Advance HE’s Leadership and Management Strategic Advisory Group.
My previous educational qualifications include an MBA (Distinction), Imperial College, University of London, 1995–96; and MA (Hons) 2(i), Philosophy, Politics and Economics, University of Oxford, 1981–84.