Distinguished Alumnus Professor Stephen McArthur Appointed as Principal and Vice-Chancellor

Leadership Change at Strathclyde: Professor Stephen McArthur Takes the Helm

Professor Stephen McArthur has been appointed as the next Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde. A distinguished academic and proud alumnus, Professor McArthur has built an impressive career at Strathclyde. Currently, he serves as the Associate Principal and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering. Furthermore, he holds the title of Distinguished Professor of Intelligent Systems, with a renowned expertise in artificial intelligence within power and energy systems. Following the retirement of Professor Sir Jim McDonald on 31 August, Professor McArthur will formally assume this prestigious role on 1 September.

Expressing his gratitude and honor at this appointment, Professor McArthur acknowledged the dedication of his colleagues in providing exceptional student experiences and conducting impactful research. Additionally, he emphasised his commitment to building on the University’s achievements and ensuring its continued contribution to modern education, research, and innovation, both on a domestic and international scale.

Professor McArthur is widely recognised as a leader in his field. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the Institute of Engineering and Technology. In addition, he serves on the boards of Scottish Enterprise and the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland. Notably, he is also the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Bellrock Technology, a spinout company from Strathclyde specializing in the application of intelligent systems, AI, and data analytics across sectors such as energy, healthcare, and rail transport.

Among his many accolades, Professor McArthur received the prestigious IEEE Richard Harold Kaufmann Award in 2021, recognising his contributions to industrial systems engineering and his groundbreaking work in advancing intelligent systems in power engineering applications.

Dame Sue Bruce, Convener of the University Court, expressed great delight in announcing Professor McArthur's appointment. She elaborated that his selection followed a rigorous recruitment process in which many highly accomplished candidates were considered. Professor McArthur's exceptional accomplishments, inspiring vision for the University, and strong leadership capabilities distinguished him as the perfect choice for this role. Moreover, Dame Sue conveyed the Court’s profound gratitude for the remarkable leadership of Sir Jim McDonald, who, over the past 16 years, has significantly transformed and strengthened the University. Professor McArthur’s appointment symbolises a continuation of the University’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence under exceptional leadership.

Editor's Note:

The appointment of Professor Stephen McArthur as the next Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde heralds a promising future for the institution. With his outstanding academic credentials, visionary leadership, and decades of experience in intelligent systems and artificial intelligence, Professor McArthur is uniquely positioned to lead Strathclyde into a new era of innovation and global impact. Professor McArthur’s proven expertise in fostering advancements in power and energy systems, combined with his established roles in influential organizations like Scottish Enterprise and the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, will undoubtedly strengthen the University’s reputation as a leading international technological institution. For students, Professor McArthur’s appointment signals an exciting time ahead. His dedication to excellence in education and his understanding of cutting-edge technology will ensure that the University continues to offer an enriching learning experience tailored to the needs of a rapidly evolving world.

Skoobuzz highlights that as the University transitions under Professor McArthur’s leadership, it is well-positioned to build on its successes and further its socially progressive agenda, nurturing a community of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. His vision and guidance will play a pivotal role in shaping a bright future for both the University and its students.