List of Nominees for 2025 Elections

With 18 years of leadership and management experience in the NHS and Local Government, and a decade in academia, I offer substantial expertise. I excel in programme management, strategic planning, and have a thorough grasp of large, complex systems. I understand University dynamics and the interdependence of its stakeholders. Experienced in student welfare, I have provided essential support to numerous students. I have effectively led large teams, overseen significant budgets, and introduced innovative healthcare solutions. My proficiency in managing complex relationships and driving positive change makes me well-equipped to contribute successfully to the Business Committee.

During my time as an academic at the University I have held a number of leadership roles, including Dean of Learning and Teaching for the College of Science and Engineering. I have also contributed to a wide range of strategic initiatives aimed at the development of student education and student support, and have worked extensively with colleagues from across the University. I have substantial experience of teaching and supporting students. I would use my experience to contribute to the work of the Business Committee and the University.

It will be an honour, a responsibility and a privilege to serve, if elected, at the Business Committee. To the success of the Committee’s works, I can contribute through my extensive and diverse management, legal and corporate experience in the public and private sector with decision-making power as well as ability for consensus-building among multiple stakeholders. I have pursued, to the best of my efforts, a path of excellence throughout my business, legal and academic career, also successfully serving twice in executive government posts. I am the President of the Edinburgh University Alumni Association in Greece with tangible results.

I am a three-time alumnus of the University of Edinburgh. It would be an honour to serve for another term on the General Council Business Committee if re-elected.

I believe my wide-ranging experience in leadership development, business and education provides valuable perspective at this pivotal time. I aspire to be a supportive “thinking partner and critical friend” to the University, and to support the growth of a compassionate and inclusive culture.

Whilst my central focus is the community’s wellbeing and the strengthening of the University’s connections within Edinburgh and its global network, I believe pursuing robust accountability is vital.

Through my academic work at the University of Oxford, under the supervision of the notable economist Sir John Kay, I have contributed to several projects at the intersection of finance, investment and economics. This has included contributing to several of Sir John’s book projects, most notably ‘The Corporation in the Twenty First Century’ and his guide to finance and investment. Before this, I spent two years as a policy caseworker for Rt. Hon Amanda Solloway MP, Commissioner of HM Treasury where I supported her ministerial work.

Since establishing my practice after graduating, I have developed a sound pragmatic knowledge in managing people, construction and expectation. I am proud of the achievements of my award-winning practice www.lornmacneal.co.uk and Playfair Properties Ltd creating homes for over 30 years. I have served as governor at Loretto, acted as advisor to the Edinburgh Academy Court, represented the RIAS Committee, and the Cockburn Association over many years.

With the time now to give back, I would be honoured to serve on the General Council, contributing my knowledge and expertise, especially in estate and business management.

I am a former member of the University Court, having maintained active links with the University, alumni and development, since graduation 1979.

I have international experience as a senior actuary, and engineer, assessing business risks, project planning, finance, and am keen to make a valuable contribution of skills and contacts for the University.

Member of University Court 1978-80

Vice President Edinburgh University Club, London 2021-Present, President 1995-2020

Member of Court, Worshipful Company of Fuellers, London since 2013, responsible for their international outreach programme, building relationships with diplomatic community in UK, energy industries, government, insurance experts, and the City of London.

I am a graduate of the University of Edinburgh (MA) and the University of St. Andrews (MLitt). Resident in Edinburgh, I would welcome the opportunity to serve the university that shaped me and provided my career foundations, helping current students to gain the same benefit. Having spent over 32 years living and working in Asia and travelling around the world in corporate risk management roles, this privilege permits me to bring insight, experience and connections, from Asia in particular, and use them to help the university navigate the complex political, economic and cultural challenges that it faces.

I am a Non-Executive Director in agricultural, veterinary, food and public health organisations in the private and public sectors. These roles draw on my 40-year career as a senior civil servant in Whitehall, marketing manager in a global pharmaceutical company, and livestock vet in Scotland. I am an RCVS Accreditation Panel member, inspecting schools for accreditation by the regulator and chaired the RCVS Education Committee. I believe my breadth of experience across multiple sectors, marketing and communications expertise in commercial settings and knowledge of higher education will bring valuable insights and expertise to the Business Committee. 

I was taught at school never to leave things undone and having had the privilege of 3 years as an active co-optee, I’d like to finish what I have started. Hence this appeal for a mandate in my own right. Through the Public Affairs Standing Committee that has meant bringing to life the concept of ‘Town and Gown’ and frankly making our rather tenuous links with City Councillors and Parliamentarians work a little harder for their university. I have started to make some progress already but I need your First preference to continue that work for another term.

I am recently retired from a career in university leadership and management with extensive experience of working at the University of Edinburgh in a wide range of roles and, latterly, as a senior leader at the University of Glasgow.  I have served as a Board or committee member in a variety of educational settings including internationally.  I am passionate about the value of higher education and committed to access to the University.  I was co-opted on to the Business Committee earlier this year and would like to continue to contribute through being an elected member. 

Originally from California, attending the University of Edinburgh both as an undergraduate exchange student and postgraduate significantly changed my life.

Looking back on 18 years in the UK, I‘ve worked in technology startups, venture capital investment, and government policy and have been fortunate to explore all seven continents.

I am profoundly grateful to the University of Edinburgh for the opportunities presented, from the inspiring Entrepreneurship Club to conferences and events at the School of Informatics. I would love to help ensure students continue to be inspired and supported to drive innovation whilst keeping the university prominent on the global stage. 

I bring considerable experience in local government corporate policy, strategy, organisational transformation, and risk management, alongside my role as founding chair of a network for young professionals that supports individuals in the early stages of their careers.  As a former student convenor for the School of History, Classics and Archaeology, I developed and delivered initiatives to improve student wellbeing and later championed the University as a student ambassador. I am committed to applying a strategic, inclusive approach to the government of the University, promoting effective representation, transparency, and student-focused leadership.