Mike Soutar Appointed Chancellor of Abertay University
Dundee-born entrepreneur and author to be installed on November 27.
Entrepreneur, business leader, and author Mike Soutar is set to become the next Chancellor of Abertay University in Dundee, his birthplace. He will officially take up the ceremonial role at the university’s winter graduation ceremonies on Friday, November 27, succeeding outgoing Chancellor Professor Alice Brown. Mike Soutar is widely recognised for his role on BBC’s The Apprentice and for co-founding Shortlist Media. As Chancellor, he will support the university’s strategic objectives, particularly its mission to prepare graduates for work and enterprise, and to create opportunities for people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Mike Soutar began his career with publisher DC Thomson in Dundee before leading various media brands. He later co-founded Shortlist Media, the publishing company behind Shortlist and Stylist. He currently serves on the UK Government’s Board of Trade and the board of V&A Dundee.
His latest book, “Next Gen CEO,” distils three decades of experience into lessons and frameworks for leadership. Mike Soutar’s appointment is said to reflect his longstanding commitment to Dundee and his belief in the power of education, innovation and entrepreneurship. As Chancellor, he will act as a figurehead, preside over graduation ceremonies, and help promote Abertay’s engagement with its wide range of stakeholders across industry, academia, and government.
Professor Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University, commented on the appointment. “Mike is an outstanding business leader whose career demonstrates the power of creativity, determination and entrepreneurial thinking,” Professor Bacon said. “His journey from Dundee to becoming one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs mirrors many of the values that define Abertay today. We are a university that believes in opportunity, innovation and real-world impact, and Mike’s experience and outlook make him an exceptional fit for our community. I am delighted to welcome him as Chancellor and look forward to working closely with him to champion Abertay, our students, our staff and our role in supporting the future prosperity of Dundee, Scotland and beyond.”
During a visit to Abertay, Mike Soutar learned more about the university’s role as a global leader in creative technology and video games. It also serves as an anchor institution for Dundee across a range of sectors including sport, engineering, mental health nursing, cybersecurity, law, and business. He also heard about Abertay’s commitment to supporting Dundee’s growing innovation ecosystem and creating opportunities for students from all backgrounds.
Mike Soutar also shared his perspective on the new role. “I am incredibly proud to accept the role of Chancellor of Abertay University,” he stated. “Dundee is where my story began and the city continues to hold a special place in my heart. Throughout my career I have believed that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not always equally distributed. That’s why Abertay’s commitment to widening access and helping people fulfil their potential resonates so strongly with me.”
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He further added: “What impressed me most about Abertay is that it is a university built for the real world. It is ambitious, innovative and highly connected to the industries and communities it serves. Whether it’s pioneering work in computer games, cybersecurity, food innovation, sport science or supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, Abertay is making a real difference. I am honoured to become part of the Abertay family and look forward to supporting the University as it continues to grow its impact locally, nationally and internationally. I’m particularly excited to meet graduates, students and staff in the months and years ahead.”
Mike Soutar has maintained strong links with Dundee throughout his career, championing the city’s economic and cultural development. He has supported a range of initiatives promoting entrepreneurship, creativity, and growth within the city.
