UWS seeks a new Chair of Court
University of the West of Scotland is seeking to appoint an exceptional individual to Chair the University Court, our governing body, succeeding the current Chair, Kate Allum, from 1 February 2026, when her final term in office comes to an end.
Election of Chair of Court
The process for appointing a new Chair of the University Court is currently underway. In order to comply with the Higher Education Governance (Scotland) Act 2016, this is being undertaken in 3 stages – application, interview and election.
Following shortlisting and interview by the Governance & Nominations Committee, two candidates have been confirmed to stand in an election for the position of Chair of Court.
The candidates have prepared a statement outlining their background and what they would bring to the University and to the University Court – please see the candidates’ submissions / statements below:
Chair of Court Candidates

Andrew Miller candidate statement
Andrew Miller Candidate Statement
Brief profile of me, my knowledge, experience and personal attributes matched to the role of Chair of Court:
I have been on the University Court for 5 years and 8 months and most of that time I have been Vice Chair of Court, deputising for our current Chair at meetings and graduations.
I have a comprehensive understanding of the tertiary education market in Scotland, its challenges and needs for the future benefit of our students and staff.
I walk the UWS mission and dreams of our students.
And specifically for this role, on leadership, governance and oversight:
I have Chaired 3 companies (2 in Scotland) over the past 12 years. During my professional career I have sat on over 50 Boards in over 4 continents. My understanding of Company law, the role of a Trustee and Governance have been well applied to UWS, both as Vice Chair of Court but also on the sub-committees of Audit and Risk, RemCom (which I Chair), and 2 other committees.
Effective working relationships:
I am a critical friend to the Court and Management Executive, but more importantly I have respect for the Team at UWS.
I have relationships with Cabinet Ministers in the Scottish Government through my current roles and a well-developed understanding of the processes of funding.
Supporting the external profile of the University:
I have used my experience to represent UWS at the Scottish Universities Chair Group who meet regularly to discuss education and financial matters.
Joyce White candidate statement
Joyce White Candidate Statement
Brief profile of me, my knowledge, experience and personal attributes matched to the role of Chair of Court:
I am excited to be on this journey: I live and was brought up (and never left!) the West of Scotland, an area I love dearly and want to see prosper.
With over 3 decades of significant leadership and business experience in senior executive and non-executive roles in the private and public sector I am passionate about Chairing your Court, being part of this amazing University.
I am confident my abilities, as a past Chief Executive, qualified accountant and HR professional will serve UWS, working in partnership with the Principal & Vice-Chancellor. I bring extensive experience working with politicians, National and Local, Trade Unions, young people, and communities. I understand the importance of inclusion, diversity and equalities.
My values align with those of UWS. I love supporting people, helping them develop and overcome challenges. I am an accredited coach, mentor and mediator.
And specifically for this role on: leadership, governance and oversight
As CE I led an organisation previously criticised by the Accounts Commission to one recognised for strong leadership, developing a culture of continuous improvement and delivering best value.
I have extensive Board skills, chair committees in public and third sector organisations, lead audit and scrutiny committees, and have reviewed governance structures and worked internationally in multi-nationals.
Effective working relationships
Following a successful private sector career, I transitioned to Public Sector Scotland where I developed strong networks, relationships, and connections across the landscape of Scotland, I believe valuable to UWS in delivering your goals.
I have a real focus on developing people and making a difference in communities, recognising the opportunities that can be delivered and achieved through social impact, sustainability, equalities, and early interventions.
Supporting the external profile of the University
Already well known across the Public Sector landscape, I will promote this successful University to continue to transform lives and communities, increasing life chances for all.
I would love to “find my place” at UWS.
Voting in the UWS Chair of Court Election
All members of Court, staff and enrolled students of the University (as defined in the Rules for the Appointment of the Chair of Court) will be entitled to vote in the election. The election process will be an electronic election and is being managed for the University by Civica Election Services.
Further information on the role of the Court, the appointment process, the Rules for the Appointment of the Chair of Court and Frequently Asked Questions are available by clicking the links below:

Additional Information
The election period will run from 9am Wednesday 01 October 2025 until 5pm Friday 10 October 2025 (10 days).
The candidate who receives the most votes in the “first-past-the-post” election will be declared the winner and will be appointed as UWS Chair of Court.
If you have any questions about the election please contact secretarysoffice@uws.ac.uk.
Open Meeting
UWS members of Court, staff and students will be invited to attend an Open Meeting taking place on Tuesday 30 September at 4pm with a mix of in-person and online attendance options available.
At the Open Meeting, you will hear from the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, Professor James Miller; the Vice-Principal (Governance) and University Secretary, Donna McMillan; and the candidates who are in the running to become the new Chair of Court. The meeting will provide an opportunity to be informed about the process, the role of Court, and find out what our candidates believe they can bring to the University, and how they plan to help us drive forward Strategy 2030.
Details on how to register for the Open Meeting will be sent to those eligible to attend. Please note that you must register in advance to attend.
The meeting will be recorded for those that cannot attend the meeting live.
