Vice-Principal (Communications)

The responsibilities of the Vice-Principal (Communications) include:

• High-level oversight of the University’s external and internal communications activity, public affairs and community engagement, the development and application of brand, and reputation management.
• Promotion of the reach and impact of St Andrews’ sector-leading teaching and research, enhancing the University’s overall reputation for excellence and expertise, strengthening relationships with key audiences and partners, raising the visibility of University leadership, students and staff, and shaping the University’s public image.
• Development and application of communication strategy and practice to support the University’s strategic aims.
• Provision of high-quality, informed, strategic communications advice to the Principal, Principal’s Office, the Senior Management team, Heads of School, Professional Service Directors, and the Students’ Association, to assist them to communicate effectively with their key stakeholder groups.

Niall Scott took up the post of Vice-Principal (Communications) in July 2022.

Niall was formerly the University’s Director of Communications. He is a former journalist and private-sector public relations practitioner with experience in reputation management in higher education, the health service, sport, and private sector business and industry.

Recruited by St Andrews in 2000 as a consultant to manage increasing national and international media interest in the University, Niall joined the staff full time in 2008 and was appointed Director of Communications the following year.

He has been closely involved supporting the academic and professional services leaders and teams who have overseen St Andrews’ growing international reputation as a centre of excellence in research and teaching.