UHI to award honorary doctorate to Malcolm Burr OBE for public service

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) will award an honorary doctorate to Malcolm Burr OBE in recognition of his contribution to the university and his longstanding commitment to public service and communities across the Highlands and Islands.

Malcolm will receive the award at UHI’s directly enrolled graduation ceremony at Eden Court in Inverness on Friday 13 November.

Malcolm, who lives in Stornoway, served as Chief Executive of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the local authority for the Western Isles, from 2005 until his retirement in March 2026. He previously held posts as Assistant Chief Executive at Orkney Islands Council and in legal services at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Strathclyde Regional Council.

During his 10 years on UHI Court, the university’s governing body, Malcolm represented its local authority partners and helped guide its strategic direction. He brought experience in governance and regional development, alongside a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing rural and island communities.

Malcolm has been Convener of the Electoral Management Board for Scotland since 2018 and continues to support public service reform in the Western Isles and beyond. He is also a former Secretary and Chair of SOLACE Scotland, the professional body for local authority chief executives and senior managers.

He was appointed OBE for public service in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2026, following a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish Public Service Awards in 2025.

Malcolm Burr said:

“This honour means a great deal to me. It has been my pleasure to have been associated with this university since its very existence. It was founded on a simple idea: that where you live should never limit your opportunities.

“UHI has provided a lifeline service to our communities through education, employment and skills development, supporting local businesses, retaining talent and contributing to the social and economic wellbeing of the communities we serve. What a vision that was and remains.”

Vicki Nairn, UHI Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said:

"This honorary doctorate recognises both Malcolm's contribution to UHI and a career dedicated to public service.

“Malcolm understands the communities UHI serves and the difference education can make to their future. During his time on Court, his judgement and experience helped guide the university’s development and strengthen our connections with local authority partners.

“We look forward to celebrating his achievements alongside those of our graduates in Inverness.”

Honorary doctorates are among the highest distinctions conferred by a university. They recognise individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the university and its region through personal service or achievement.