Principal

An opportunity to lead a world-class university through a defining period of transformation.

Over 530 years of academic excellence have led to this moment. The University of Aberdeen - ranked among the world’s top 250 universities - has a proud heritage dating back to 1495. Home to over 14,000 students from more than 130 countries, it blends historic tradition with modern ambition. Based in the vibrant city of Aberdeen, it is globally connected and widely respected for its research, education, and student experience.

We are now seeking an exceptional leader to become our next Principal - an opportunity to shape the University’s future and drive strategic, academic, and operational excellence.

As Principal, you will be accountable to the University Court and hold overarching responsibility for the leadership, direction, and overall performance of the institution. Your leadership will be instrumental in fostering a positive and inclusive culture, ensuring financial sustainability, and enhancing the University’s reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.

This is a pivotal leadership role at a critical time in higher education. The successful candidate will guide the institution through a changing landscape, strengthening its academic mission and engaging stakeholders with vision and confidence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic leadership is central to this role, requiring the ability to advance an inclusive organisation committed to academic excellence. You will oversee the evolution of the Aberdeen 2040 strategy, ensuring that long-term ambitions align with immediate priorities. The Principal will champion academic excellence across all disciplines, reinforcing the University’s reputation as a leader in education, research, and innovation.

Financial sustainability will be a core focus, requiring decisive leadership on income diversification and operational efficiency. A commitment to cultural transformation is essential, fostering an inclusive and respectful organisational environment that strengthens community values. The role also demands external advocacy, enhancing the University’s profile, influence, and competitiveness on national and international stages.

Person Specification

We seek an effective individual with a strong track record of strategic leadership in a large, complex organisation. The successful candidate must demonstrate expertise in financial stewardship, governance, and accountability, alongside a proven ability to deliver transformational change.

A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is essential, as well as outstanding communication and relationship-building skills that engage diverse communities in strategic decision-making. Experience in external engagement and advocacy at senior levels - whether with government bodies, funding agencies, or industry partners - is also highly desirable.

Why Join Us?

The University of Aberdeen is one of the UK’s most historic and ambitious institutions, committed to excellence in education, research, and civic impact. As Principal, you will lead a university with global reach and deep local roots - guiding its next chapter with purpose and vision. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a world-class institution and make a lasting difference on the national and international stage.

To find out more, we encourage you to speak with our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson. Please contact Ross Highfield at aberdeenprincipal@gatenbysanderson.com or on 07891 138 886 for a confidential conversation and click on Apply for more information.