University of the Highlands and Islands Principal and Vice-Chancellor to retire at end of the year

The Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Highlands and Islands, James M Fraser, has today (Tuesday 18 June 2013) advised the University Court (the university’s governing body) that he intends to retire at the end of 2013.

Mr Fraser joined what was then the UHI Millennium Institute as Secretary in September 2002. He was appointed Deputy Principal in 2007. In 2009 Mr Fraser succeeded Professor Robert Cormack as Principal and subsequently became Principal and Vice-Chancellor in February 2011, on the achievement of university title.

The chair of the University Court, Professor Matthew MacIver CBE, said: “On behalf of the Court I would like to thank James Fraser for his huge commitment to the development of the University of the Highlands and Islands. James was instrumental in the achievement of taught degree awarding powers in 2008 and the attainment of university title in 2011 owed a great deal to his drive, diligence and meticulous attention to detail. Since then he has continued to guide the university through its evolving role in both higher and further education in the region.

“Through his experience and leadership, James has made a major contribution to the success of the university as an essential part of the social, cultural and economic infrastructure of the Highlands and Islands.”

The University Court has established a search committee to oversee the process and appointment of a successor to Mr Fraser.