The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Perth campus recently announced a significant leadership change, appointing Catherine Etri as its interim chief executive. This appointment follows the unexpected and immediate resignation of Dr. Margaret Cook from her position as principal. Ms. Etri, a highly respected figure within the Perthshire educational community, brings extensive experience to the role, having served as a vice principal at UHI Perth for over three decades before her retirement last year. Her interim leadership, anticipated to last at least six months, comes at a critical juncture for the institution. Financial Challenges and Strategic Decisions
UHI Perth is currently facing substantial financial difficulties, grappling with a significant budget shortfall, estimated at £2 million. This deficit has prompted a series of urgent strategic reviews and cost-cutting measures. Previously, the university had explored the possibility of eliminating all university degree programs to address the financial crisis, a plan that was met with considerable opposition and subsequently withdrawn. The appointment of Ms. Etri marks a turning point, representing a concerted effort to stabilize the institution’s finances and chart a course toward long-term sustainability. Her extensive knowledge of UHI Perth’s operations and history places her in a strong position to lead this process.
The university’s financial woes are further complicated by the recent collapse of an aviation company with ties to the campus. The institution is actively seeking a buyer for the failed business, aiming to minimize the impact on its overall financial health. These multiple challenges necessitate decisive leadership and strategic planning, qualities Ms. Etri is expected to bring to bear. Community Support and Student Concerns
The appointment of Ms. Etri has been met with positive reactions from various stakeholders. Pete Wishart, the local Member of Parliament, expressed his enthusiasm for her appointment, highlighting her substantial experience and strong relationships within the UHI Perth community. He emphasized her ability to navigate the current challenges facing the campus and to work towards a positive future for students and staff.
Student leaders also voiced their support. Xander McDade, president of the UHI Perth Students’ Association, expressed confidence in Ms. Etri’s capability to address the financial concerns, emphasizing her deep commitment to the well-being of the student body, faculty, and the wider Perthshire community. The students’ association will actively collaborate with Ms. Etri to ensure that student voices are heard throughout the campus’s recovery plan. Executive Changes and the Road Ahead
The leadership shift extends beyond the principal’s office. The departure of Gavin Stevenson, the former head of finance, has also created a vacancy. To strengthen its fiscal management, UHI Perth has recruited Fiona Cameron as interim finance director, beginning her duties on June 9th. An independent financial consultant has also been brought on board to assist Ms. Cameron and develop a comprehensive recovery plan. The university hopes this new strategic direction will put it back on a stable path. These changes are indicative of the urgency and magnitude of the situation facing the university, underscoring the need for decisive action. The timing of these appointments also coincides with the upcoming retirement of depute principal Lorenz Cairns, adding further complexity to the transition process. These upcoming changes create uncertainty at a time when stability is crucial. The combination of Ms. Etri’s profound understanding of the campus, the expertise of Ms. Cameron, and the guidance of an external financial advisor provides a foundation for navigating the challenging path ahead. The success of these efforts will depend on collaboration between all parties involved.
The situation at UHI Perth highlights the importance of robust financial planning and effective management within the higher education sector. The university’s journey towards recovery will undoubtedly be carefully watched by other institutions, students, and members of the Perthshire community. The upcoming months will be critical in determining the extent to which these changes will help the university thrive once again. The eyes of the Perth and Kinross region are upon the university as it navigates these turbulent times. The community’s hope for a prosperous future for UHI Perth remains steadfast.
UHI Perth is currently facing substantial financial difficulties, grappling with a significant budget shortfall, estimated at £2 million. This deficit has prompted a series of urgent strategic reviews and cost-cutting measures. Previously, the university had explored the possibility of eliminating all university degree programs to address the financial crisis, a plan that was met with considerable opposition and subsequently withdrawn. The appointment of Ms. Etri marks a turning point, representing a concerted effort to stabilize the institution’s finances and chart a course toward long-term sustainability. Her extensive knowledge of UHI Perth’s operations and history places her in a strong position to lead this process.
The university’s financial woes are further complicated by the recent collapse of an aviation company with ties to the campus. The institution is actively seeking a buyer for the failed business, aiming to minimize the impact on its overall financial health. These multiple challenges necessitate decisive leadership and strategic planning, qualities Ms. Etri is expected to bring to bear. Community Support and Student Concerns
The appointment of Ms. Etri has been met with positive reactions from various stakeholders. Pete Wishart, the local Member of Parliament, expressed his enthusiasm for her appointment, highlighting her substantial experience and strong relationships within the UHI Perth community. He emphasized her ability to navigate the current challenges facing the campus and to work towards a positive future for students and staff.
Student leaders also voiced their support. Xander McDade, president of the UHI Perth Students’ Association, expressed confidence in Ms. Etri’s capability to address the financial concerns, emphasizing her deep commitment to the well-being of the student body, faculty, and the wider Perthshire community. The students’ association will actively collaborate with Ms. Etri to ensure that student voices are heard throughout the campus’s recovery plan. Executive Changes and the Road Ahead
The leadership shift extends beyond the principal’s office. The departure of Gavin Stevenson, the former head of finance, has also created a vacancy. To strengthen its fiscal management, UHI Perth has recruited Fiona Cameron as interim finance director, beginning her duties on June 9th. An independent financial consultant has also been brought on board to assist Ms. Cameron and develop a comprehensive recovery plan. The university hopes this new strategic direction will put it back on a stable path. These changes are indicative of the urgency and magnitude of the situation facing the university, underscoring the need for decisive action. The timing of these appointments also coincides with the upcoming retirement of depute principal Lorenz Cairns, adding further complexity to the transition process. These upcoming changes create uncertainty at a time when stability is crucial. The combination of Ms. Etri’s profound understanding of the campus, the expertise of Ms. Cameron, and the guidance of an external financial advisor provides a foundation for navigating the challenging path ahead. The success of these efforts will depend on collaboration between all parties involved.
The situation at UHI Perth highlights the importance of robust financial planning and effective management within the higher education sector. The university’s journey towards recovery will undoubtedly be carefully watched by other institutions, students, and members of the Perthshire community. The upcoming months will be critical in determining the extent to which these changes will help the university thrive once again. The eyes of the Perth and Kinross region are upon the university as it navigates these turbulent times. The community’s hope for a prosperous future for UHI Perth remains steadfast.