Malcolm Burr steps down from UHI Court after years of service

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) has announced that Court member Malcolm Burr has stepped down from his position, following his retirement as Chief Executive of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council).

Mr Burr served as Chief Executive of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar from 2005 until his retirement in March this year and is one of Scotland’s longest-serving local authority leaders. Over the course of his career, he made a significant contribution to public service in the Highlands and Islands, bringing extensive experience in governance, regional development and community leadership.

During his time on Court, Mr Burr played an important role in supporting the university’s strategic direction, drawing on his deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing island and rural communities.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor Vicki Nairn said:

“Malcolm has brought a wealth of experience and insight to university Court, shaped by many years of leadership in the Highlands and Islands. His commitment to public service and to the communities we serve has been invaluable, and we are extremely grateful for the contribution he has made to the university during his time with us.”

Malcolm said:

“It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have been a member of the UHI Court for so many years, representing UHI’s essential local authority partners. I am honoured to have played a small part in the growing and strengthening of UHI and its delivery of higher and further education throughout the Highlands and Islands.

“Despite the difficulties facing all universities at present, UHI has maintained high levels of student satisfaction and strong ratings in key areas such as research, and I am confident that UHI will continue to meet the needs of its diverse areas, recognising the opportunities and needs of local economies and working increasingly collaboratively with its local partners to support communities in these financially challenging times.

“We are living in an era of public service reform, and UHI will, I know, play a full and constructive part in developing the right models for higher and further education in all the diverse areas of the Highlands and Islands.”

Alastair MacColl, Chair of Court, added:

"Malcolm has been an outstanding member of our governing body. His acumen, judgement and wise counsel have been invaluable, and matched only by his commitment to the crucial role that UHI plays in the communities we serve. On behalf of the UHI community I’d like to say a very big thank you. Móran taing."

Mr Burr stepped down from Court on Wednesday 14 April. More information on the university’s Court can be found on UHI’s website.