Published:
Professor Steve McLaughlin has been named the new Vice-Principal and Provost of Heriot-Watt University.
The appointment was approved today by the University’s governing body, the Court, and takes immediate effect.
Professor McLaughlin joined the University in 2011 and became Executive Dean of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences. For the past two years, he has served as Deputy Principal for Research Impact and prior to this he was a Development Engineer in industry and Chair in Electronic Communications Systems at the University of Edinburgh.
Now, as a member of the University Executive and Global Operations Executive teams, Professor McLaughlin will lead on institutional strategic and resource planning, as well as portfolio development of the University’s undergraduate and postgraduate offering.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University said: “Throughout his distinguished academic career, Steve has been providing excellent leadership with a firm focus on innovation.
“This is a key academic leadership role reflecting our commitment to putting people at the heart of everything we do, enhancing the staff and student experience, and achieving excellence and innovation across our learning and teaching and research portfolios.”
Professor McLaughlin brings to his new role a wealth of experience that aligns with the University’s distinctive portfolio and values. He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the European Signal Processing Association, the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Professor McLaughlin said: “I’m truly honoured and thrilled to be taking up this new role. I am proud to have been part of our incredible University journey over the past ten years or so and very thankful to those dedicated colleagues who have supported me so far. I am committed to continuing to effect real change through our strategic vision, underpinned by our values and collaborative approach.
“Our fundamental purpose is to create and exchange knowledge that benefits society. That includes driving excellent co-created education and research across the five campus locations we serve globally, enhanced by their unique heritage, and cultures. Together with ensuring engagement with business and industry, they are unparalleled. I look forward to continuing to make a positive difference from the work we do.”*9-/