Why Mark Sedwill

The University has set out that candidates should be senior figures in public life, able to command respect across the University community and beyond, with a strong commitment to higher education and a deep appreciation of St Andrews’ values and aims.

 

Mark’s fit is unusual because it brings together three things.

 

He is rooted in the University. He came to St Andrews as a state-educated, first-in-family student and found a place that shaped his judgement and character as well as his career. He has remained connected through the University’s governance and academic community.

 

He has the stature and experience to represent St Andrews where it matters. The Chancellor’s job is to promote the University’s interests and reputation nationally and globally, and to support fundraising. Mark has spent decades working at the highest levels of public service and internationally, building relationships and opening doors across government, business and philanthropy.

 

He understands the decade ahead. He has worked at the point where institutions confront change, risk and uncertainty, and he brings a clear view of the pressures facing universities, including technology, funding, global competition and academic freedom. 

 

If the Chancellor’s job is to sustain St Andrews’ identity, defend its values, widen its reach and help the University and its community thrive, Mark matches the role as the University itself has defined it.