The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s great universities. Founded by the town council of Edinburgh in 1583, the University was the first true civic university in the UK. Edinburgh's education and research have made an extraordinary contribution to society for almost 450 years. Today, Edinburgh is a globally renowned, research-intensive institution with 50,000 students and an annual income of £1.5bn.
In recent years, Edinburgh has demonstrated remarkable ambition and impact. The University has invested in areas that will shape the future, including data science, artificial intelligence, health innovation and the transition to a more sustainable world. Landmark developments such as the Edinburgh Futures Institute, the Bayes Centre and the development of the UK’s new £750m national supercomputer have strengthened our capacity to deliver world-leading research, attract exceptional talent and contribute to economic and social prosperity.
The University is now seeking to appoint its next Principal and Vice-Chancellor. The Principal will provide leadership and strategic vision with a commitment to world leading excellence in research and innovation, learning and teaching, social and civic responsibility and to our communities who underpin these pillars. Leading the University’s senior team and as a member of the University’s governing body, the University Court, and President of the academic Senate, the Principal will ensure the long-term sustainability of a large and complex institution, while strengthening Edinburgh’s external relationships, partnerships and international engagement. Above all, the Principal will harness the extraordinary talent and breadth of the University’s community to ensure Edinburgh continues to thrive in a rapidly evolving global higher education environment.
Candidates will bring an outstanding record of strategic leadership at significant scale within a complex, multi-faceted environment, together with experience of delivering world-leading research and a deep commitment to excellence in education and the student experience. Candidates will have the credibility, judgement and presence to represent Edinburgh at the highest levels nationally and internationally, alongside the ability to develop strategic partnerships with a range of external organisations. The Principal will be a highly visible leader. They will foster a culture of collective achievement, empowering colleagues while providing clear direction and accountability, and building trust across a diverse community of staff and students. They will be an inspiring advocate for Edinburgh’s distinctive mission and share the University’s commitment to advancing education and knowledge for the benefit of society.
How to Apply:
The University is partnering with the executive search firm WittKieffer to support the selection committee in the appointment of the next Principal and Vice-Chancellor.
Enquiries can be made, in confidence, to Jamie Cumming-Wesley (jcumming-wesley@wittkieffer.com), Natalie Derry (nderry@wittkieffer.com) or Evan Yeckley (eyeckley@wittkieffer.com) at WittKieffer.
Completed applications should be submitted electronically to gdrummond@wittkieffer.com
Further information can be found at the following link: https://api.wittkieffer.com/wp-content/uploads/position/a1WUn000002GcmXMAS/principal-vc-university-of-edinburgh-candidate-brochure.pdf
Applications should include the following:
- an up-to-date curriculum vitae demonstrating key responsibilities and achievements;
- a supporting statement (ideally no longer than two pages) explaining how your personal skills, qualities and experience provide evidence of your suitability for the role with reference to the criteria in the person specification.
The closing date for applications is 4 December 2026.
