Published:
Heriot-Watt University has appointed Penny McIntyre as its new Global Director of Human Resources. She joins the University on 1 July 2024.
Penny is a graduate of Sheffield Hallam University, where she also became Human Resources Manager early in her career. She went on to become Human Resources Director (Infrastructure Projects) at Network Rail and most recently as Human Resources Director of Fibre Network Delivery and Central Functions at Openreach, the UK's largest fibre and network infrastructure organisation, where she was responsible for over 12,000 professionals. She is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Penny said: “I’m delighted to be taking up the role of Global Director of HR at Heriot-Watt University.
"The University is distinctive in its global reach and has a compelling strategic ambition for the future. Its commitment to providing access to education and research which makes a profound difference to society is something I'm excited to be part of. People and culture will be central to realising this mission, and I look forward to working with colleagues across Heriot-Watt to shape and deliver a people strategy that will enable a great employee experience with the University values embedded in everything we will do.”
The Global Director HR is a key leadership position, with a clear remit to plan, deliver and shape the University’s people strategies and policies, providing visionary leadership to the Human Resources function.
Penny’s appointment will see her play a leading role in developing and implementing those people and organisational development strategies, while ensuring the University continues to be an organisation characterised by its inclusivity, collaboration, and respect.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said: “People are at the heart of Heriot-Watt’s mission, and we are thrilled to welcome Penny as our new Global Director of Human Resources.
“Penny shares our dedication as a values-led organisation and brings with her a wealth of multi-sector experience from her time in Higher Education, transport, and telecommunications. We are confident that her leadership will further strengthen our commitment to nurturing a supportive and inclusive community for all.”