Professor Sir Jim McDonald, one of Scotland’s most distinguished engineers and Emeritus Principal of the University of Strathclyde, has been appointed to the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle – the highest honour in Scotland, recognising individuals who have held public office or who have contributed in a particular way to national life. 

Revived by King James VII, it has a complement of 16 Knights and Ladies. King Charles III is Sovereign of the Order and appointments are made entirely at His Majesty’s personal discretion. 

Sir Jim studied electrical engineering at Strathclyde, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 1978, before completing a Master of Science in electrical power engineering and a Doctor of Philosophy in power system economics. 

Following an early career in the UK electricity supply industry, Sir Jim returned to Strathclyde in 1984 and went on to hold a series of senior academic leadership roles.  

Appointed to the Rolls-Royce Chair in Electrical Power Systems in 1993, he later became Head of the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Deputy Principal for Research. In March 2009 he was appointed Principal and Vice-Chancellor, a position he held until his retirement in August 2025. 

Sustained growth

During his tenure as Principal, the University experienced a period of sustained growth and international recognition in technology, innovation and research which reinforced its distinctiveness as having been established as the UK’s first Technological University when it received its Royal Charter.

Sir Jim played a leading role in the establishment of the Glasgow City Innovation District and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland, strengthening Scotland’s innovation infrastructure and inclusive economic growth. 

Professor Stephen McArthur, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, said: “This is a richly deserved honour for Sir Jim and a moment of great pride for the University of Strathclyde. 

“Sir Jim’s leadership transformed Strathclyde into a global university renowned for its impact in engineering, innovation and inclusive growth. His unwavering commitment to widening access, to collaboration with industry and to serving Scotland’s economy and society exemplifies the very best of public service.  

We are delighted to see his exceptional contribution recognised with appointment to the Order of the Thistle.

Beyond the University, Sir Jim served as President of the Royal Academy of Engineering from 2019 to 2024, becoming the first Scot to hold the office.  

His public service spans engineering, education and economic development, with a consistent focus on widening access to higher education, skills development and industry-academic collaboration. In 2025 he was appointed Chair of Scottish Enterprise. 

Sir Jim was knighted in 2012 for services to education, engineering and the economy, and was appointed Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 2024. He is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society of Edinburgh, holds numerous honorary degrees, and in 2024 was inducted into the Scottish Engineering Hall of Fame. In 2025 he received the City of Glasgow’s Loving Cup for distinguished service. 

Deeply honoured

Following his retirement, Sir Jim was appointed Emeritus Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde.

Sir Jim said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this appointment to the Order of the Thistle. Strathclyde has been a central part of my life for many years, first as a student and then throughout my academic career, and I have always been proud to serve an institution so closely connected to the progress of Glasgow, Scotland and beyond.

“This recognition is one I accept with sincere gratitude, humility and as a reflection of the many colleagues, friends, partners and students with whom I have had the privilege to work over the years.”

Other Strathclyders who are members of the Order of the Thistle include Lady Elish Angiolini, Chancellor Lord Smith of Kelvin and former Chancellor Lord Hope of Craighead.