New national role for OU in Scotland Principal

Open University (OU) in Scotland Principal Martin Boyle has been appointed Vice Convener of Universities Scotland, the body that represents Scotland’s 19 higher education institutions.

The start of Martin’s national role coincides with the new academic year, and is for a two-year term. 

The role holder is part of Universities Scotland’s executive group, which is key to the organisation’s strategic direction. 

Martin will support its Convener, Professor James Miller, and fellow Vice Convener, Professor Sue Rigby. He succeeds Sir Paul Grice, Principal and Vice Chancellor of Queen Margaret University.

In a further Universities Scotland two-year appointment, Professor Mairi Watson, Principal and Vice Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University, is the new Convener of its Learning and Teaching Committee. 

Commenting on the appointments, Professor James Miller said:

“I would like to thank Martin and Mairi for agreeing to take on these important roles with Universities Scotland. Both bring a wealth of experience, insight and commitment, and I am grateful for their willingness to contribute their time and expertise in support of the sector.

“I look forward to working with them as we continue to advance the collective interests of Scotland’s universities.”

I welcome the privilege of working with sector colleagues to support the vitally important work of Universities Scotland."

Martin Boyle, OU in Scotland Principal

Responding to his appointment, Martin Boyle said: "Scotland's universities are one of our true national treasures, with a rich history in delivering life-changing education and research.

"I welcome the privilege of working with colleagues across the sector to support the vitally important work of Universities Scotland."

Martin has led Scotland’s national university for widening access and lifelong learning since April 2025. He was previously the university’s Depute Director for Strategy, Planning and Resources.

The OU in Scotland is the largest provider of part-time higher education in the country, and its students live in all 32 council areas. In the recently-published National Student Survey 2026 the OU ranked second in Scotland for overall student satisfaction.

18 August 2026

Photo of Martin Boyle by Kathryn Tuckerman