Claire McPherson became Director of Universities Scotland on 25 March 2024, joining from the Scottish government.
Claire has worked in various roles in over a decade of service in the Scottish government, including: constitutional policy and engagement in the lead up to the 2014 independence referendum; cross-government strategy and Programme for Government delivery; deputy head of First Minister policy and delivery unit; public sector reform; community empowerment; third sector strategic lead; population and migration strategy.
Prior to the Scottish government, Claire served as Deputy Director of Policy at the Scottish Funding Council. She also has ten years in a variety of roles at the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales.