Professor James Miller appointed as principal of UWS

Professor James Miller will lead the university, which has a Paisley campus, from November 1.

He has a substantial leadership track record, having been deputy vice-chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University since August 2015, previously holding a range of other senior roles including director of the Open University in Scotland and chief executive of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. 

Professor Miller is also a fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine, a member of the Institute of Directors, and was a founder member of the British Council’s Digital Advisory Board.

He said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the next principal and vice-chancellor at the University of the West of Scotland. It is a great privilege to join the team at such an important time for the university and higher education more widely.

"The university's enviable record on widening participation has seen it transform the lives of thousands of students as well as the economic and social wellbeing of the communities it serves in Scotland, the UK and globally. Our focus will be to build on the achievements of staff and students in taking the university into the next exciting phase of its history."

UWS's Court oversaw the appointment of the new principal and vice-chancellor following an extensive recruitment and selection process, which included student and staff representatives.

Kate Allum, UWS chair of Court, said: "It gives me great pleasure to announce Professor James Miller's appointment to this important role, which also marks a momentous point in UWS's history.

"As we work to deliver our ambitious strategic vision for the University and continue to provide a high-quality teaching and learning experience for our amazing students, I look forward to working alongside Professor Miller whose values-based leadership will ensure our wonderful institution continues to go from strength-to-strength."