Heriot-Watt University appoints Professor Nola Hewitt-Dundas as Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Heriot-Watt University has appointed Professor Nola Hewitt-Dundas as its next Principal and Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Hewitt-Dundas joins Heriot-Watt from Queen’s University Belfast, where she serves as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Transnational Education) and Professor of Innovation Management and Policy. She is also an internationally recognised academic in innovation and science policy and currently serves as a non-executive Board member of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
I look forward to engaging with colleagues across the University’s campuses to support our staff and students, deliver Strategy 2035, and build a sustainable and successful future together.
Professor Hewitt-Dundas will join the University on 1 September 2026, with Professor Richard A. Williams remaining in post as Principal and Vice-Chancellor until the end of September ensuring a smooth and effective transition.
Bruce Pritchard, Chair of Court at Heriot-Watt University, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Professor Hewitt-Dundas to the Heriot-Watt community. She is joining at an exciting time, as we embark on the realisation of Strategy 2035. Nola brings the vision, drive and leadership experience needed to lead Heriot-Watt into this next chapter. Her academic credentials, a strong alignment with our University’s values and a track record of delivering transformational change programmes makes her a perfect fit to lead the organisation in the coming years.
“We look forward to working with Professor Hewitt-Dundas to inspire and engage our staff, students, alumni and partners, and to shape a bold, sustainable and globally connected future for the University. I would also like once again to thank and pay tribute to Professor Richard Williams, who is leaving us at the end of September after a very successful 11 years in the role.”
Commenting on her appointment, Professor Hewitt-Dundas said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the next Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University. Heriot-Watt is a distinctive global university, renowned for its excellence in science, engineering and business, its strong industry connections, and its international reach.
“I look forward to engaging with colleagues across the University’s campuses to support our staff and students, deliver Strategy 2035, and build a sustainable and successful future together.”
Heriot-Watt University is a global institution with campuses in Scotland, Dubai and Malaysia, as well as a growing cohort of online learners. The University is internationally recognised for its industry-focused education, research excellence, and real-world impact across science, engineering, business and the built environment.
Professor Hewitt-Dundas was appointed following a highly competitive international search. She brings extensive experience in senior university leadership, global engagement, governance, innovation and research.
She will be the first woman to serve as Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, marking a significant milestone as the University celebrates the 60th anniversary of its Royal Charter.