Staff and students at the University of Strathclyde have elected a new Convener of Court – the institution’s governing body.
David Clark was successfully elected to the position and will take up the post from 1 August 2025
An Electronic and Electrical Engineering alumnus of Strathclyde, Mr Clark is an experienced Executive, Non-Executive Director and corporate Advisor with over 40 years of global leadership experience across the energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors.
He currently serves as the Interim Executive Chair of a private equity owned, energy efficiency & microGRID solutions equipment manufacturer and is a Non-Executive Director of Nuclear Restoration Services Limited, Vysus Group and the Energy Industries Council (EIC).
The current Convener, Dame Sue Bruce, will continue to lead Court until the end of her term in July 2025.
Valued role
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of Strathclyde, said: “We offer our sincere congratulations to David on his election as Convener. This is a hugely important and valued role in the University’s governance and we look forward to his contribution.
“I would like to thank all of our staff and students who participated in the election as well as our candidates for their commitment to this election process and their support for the ongoing excellent governance of the University.”
Mr Clark said: “I am a proud alumnus of the University, as was my elder brother, and we were the first generation in our family to attend university. My time at Strathclyde has certainly shaped who I am today.
“As Convener, I will prioritise fostering a governance environment that supports the University’s strategic objectives while remaining responsive to the broader economic and societal shifts.
I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to Strathclyde’s continued success, championing its role as a forward-thinking, progressive institution that addresses the global challenges of our time head on.
Strategic direction
As the overall governing body of the University, Court contributes to the high-level strategic direction of the institution and is responsible for overseeing its management and administration.
Its 24 members are drawn from the University’s external and internal communities, and includes co-opted lay members, academic and professional services staff members and colleagues drawn from staff Trades Unions and from the Students’ Association together with the Principal and Vice-Principal and representatives from local government.
The Convener works closely with the Principal, to ensure the operational delivery of the University’s Strategic Plan.
The Convener leads the operation of the Court and makes sure that its members work effectively together, taking collective responsibility for its decision making. The Convener oversees Court’s adherence to the highest standards of corporate governance within the Principles of Public Life.