The University of Aberdeen said it appointed Aberdeen Asset Management CEO Martin Gilbert as senior governor to lead its governing body, the University Court.

The senior governor is responsible for the leadership of the Court, which approves the University’s mission and strategic vision and oversees the management of its revenue, property and other resources.

An Aberdeen graduate, Gilbert was a co-founder of Aberdeen Asset Management which has grown to be one of Europe’s leading fund management groups with assets under management of more than £300 billion.

Gilbert is also deputy chairman of Sky plc and was previously chairman of Aberdeen-based transport giant FirstGroup.

As the university’s senior governor, Gilbert succeeds Moir Lockhead, who retired from the role at the end of December.

Gilbert’s appointment is for a three-year term of office with effect from January 1, 2017.

Professor Ian Diamond, principal & vice-chancellor, said: “The role of senior governor is critically important, all the more so given the increasingly competitive world of higher education.

“That is why I am delighted that the court in selecting Martin has appointed someone who is hugely experienced and internationally successful.

“I very much look forward to working with Martin as we take forward our ambitious plans for our university.”

Gilbert said: “I am honoured that the Court has appointed me to this role.

“I have always valued the part the university played in my education and it is wonderful to have this opportunity to help it achieve its strategy and its global ambition.

“The university is one of Scotland’s great institutions and I am passionate about ensuring it continues to thrive and extending its reputation as a university that is competing with the very best in the world.”

James Hall, convener of the appointment committee said: “Our recruitment campaign attracted a large field of distinguished applicants and we are delighted that Martin has accepted the role.

“He brings a wealth of experience and expertise from both the public and private sectors which will be of enormous benefit to the university and to the work of our Court.”

The university said the appointment was approved by the University Court following an extensive public recruitment process in line with the Scottish Code of Good HE Governance.

The appointment committee included staff, student, governor and alumni members of the university.