The University of Strathclyde's Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Jim McDonald, has been appointed Chair of Scottish Enterprise, Scotland's national economic development agency.
Scottish Enterprise plays a pivotal role in shaping Scotland's economy by supporting businesses, fostering innovation, promoting international trade, and driving sustainable economic growth.
As Chair, Sir Jim will oversee the agency's strategic direction, working closely with its leadership team and stakeholders to address national economic priorities. The role includes championing Scotland as a destination for investment and innovation, supporting high-growth sectors, and ensuring the organisation contributes to a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
He will take up his post on January 1.
Business leader
A renowned academic and business leader, Sir Jim has served as Principal of the University of Strathclyde since 2009. Under his leadership, the University has repositioned itself as a Leading International Technological University that is Socially Progressive – underpinned by a successful and distinctive strategy focused on deep collaboration with business, industry, and government partners.
Sir Jim said: "It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of Scottish Enterprise. Scotland is rich in talent, innovation, and opportunity, and I am committed to working with the organisation and its partners to drive economic growth, create opportunities, and champion sustainable development.
“With emerging technologies, the need to make progress in creating a net zero industrial system and a changing global economy, there has never been a more important time to support Scottish businesses and attract inward investment.
Having been involved with Scottish Enterprise previously as a Board member, I understand the vital role it plays in supporting Scotland's economy.
"Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my career, and I look forward to bringing that same ethos to this new role."
Internationally recognised
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Professor McDonald is an internationally recognised figure with a track record of driving innovation and change.
“His experience and expertise will no doubt be an asset to Scottish Enterprise, which attracts investment and backs ambitious companies and projects throughout Scotland.
I look forward to working with Sir Jim to grow Scotland’s economy, secure the economic benefits of the transition to net zero and support new businesses that capitalise on the research and ingenuity of our universities.
Adrian Gillespie, Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive, said, “We’re delighted to welcome Professor Sir Jim McDonald as the new Chair of Scottish Enterprise and look forward to working with him.
“Sir Jim has repositioned the University of Strathclyde as a leading international technological university, delivered a £1 billion campus development and worked closely with Scottish Enterprise in establishing the Glasgow City Innovation District and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland.
“He knows us well having previously served on our Board and brings a significant passion for economic development and expertise in innovation and the energy transition.
“His global reputation, connections across the private and public sectors, and impressive leadership track record will be enormous assets to Scottish Enterprise.”
Distinguished career
His appointment follows a distinguished career spanning industry and academia. Beginning in 1978 as an electrical power system engineer with SSEB (now Scottish Power), he joined the University of Strathclyde as a New Blood Lecturer in 1984. He progressed to become the Rolls-Royce Professor of Electrical Systems, Director of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre, and Director of the Centre for Electrical Power Engineering in partnership with the UK electrical utility sector.
Under his leadership since 2009, Strathclyde has increased its research income by more than 350% and its total income by more than 120%. He has driven the creation of Scotland's two most successful Innovation Districts – the Glasgow City Innovation District and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland – supporting industrial investment, productivity, competitiveness, and job creation.
His influence extends beyond academia through significant corporate governance roles, including positions with Scottish Power, Supernode Ltd, Enginuity, NPL, Weir Group plc, and Axeda Systems.
Crucial role
Sir Jim has played a crucial role in shaping national policy and strategy. He co-Chairs the Scottish Energy Advisory Board with the First Minister and the Glasgow Economic Leadership Board with the Leader of Glasgow City Council. He recently led the publication of two national reports on Scotland's Innovation Strategy and opportunities for Floating Offshore Wind in Scotland.
From 2019 to 2024, he served as President of the Royal Academy of Engineering – the first Scot to hold this prestigious position – placing him at the heart of UK engineering and technology policy and as a member of the Prime Minister's Council for Science and Technology.
His contributions have been recognised at the highest level. In the Queen's Jubilee Birthday Honours List 2012, he was awarded a Knighthood for Services to Education, Engineering and the Economy. Most recently, in the King's New Year's Honours List 2024, he received the rare honour of being awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE) for Services to Engineering, Education and Energy.
A three-time graduate of Strathclyde, Sir Jim holds BSc, MSc, and PhD degrees in electronic and electrical engineering, electrical power engineering, and energy economics. Under his leadership, Strathclyde has achieved numerous accolades, including being the only institution to be named Times Higher UK University of the Year twice and receiving three consecutive Queen's Anniversary Prizes.