University of Highland and Islands appoints new head
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The University of the Highlands and Islands has appointed Professor Todd Walker as its next principal and vice-chancellor.
Professor Walker is currently provost and deputy vice-chancellor at the University of New England, which operates several campuses across the state of New South Wales in Australia.
He is an accomplished clinical cytologist with strong teaching credentials.
A PhD in molecular oncology he also has a graduate certificate in university leadership and management.
Professor Walker said he looked forward to working collaboratively with staff and students.
He added: "I believe the University of the Highlands and Islands is poised for a bright future and I am honoured and humbled to lead the partnership and all staff through the next chapter of the university's development."
Professor Walker will take up his appointment on February 1 – exactly ten years to the day since the university was founded.
He replaces Professor Clive Mulholland who retired in July 2019 and will be the university's third principal and vice-chancellor.
Garry Coutts, Chair of the University Court, said: "Professor Walker's background makes him an ideal leader for us as we approach our tenth birthday as a university serving the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire.
"With an impressive 25-year career in senior academic leadership and management, he brings significant networking and experience to the role.
"He understands and values both further and higher education and has worked across institutions with multiple campuses based in communities with very different needs.
"Our communities need their university now and in the future.
"Whether it is training people in new skills, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, or working with business to ensure they have access to the best research to help them grow and thrive, our university partnership will play a vital role in supporting the recovery of our region from the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
"I am convinced Professor Walker is the right person at the right time to take us to another level."
