Martin Boyle Appointed New Director of The Open University in Scotland

The Open University (OU) in Scotland has announced Martin Boyle as its new Director, succeeding Susan Stewart, who has served in the role for the past nine years and will step down in spring. Martin will officially assume the position on 8 April 2025.

Martin Boyle, currently Depute Director for Strategy, Planning, and Resources at The Open University in Scotland, joined the institution in August 2024. In his current role, he has been an integral part of the leadership team, overseeing strategic initiatives and resource management.

Before joining the OU, Martin Boyle served as Executive Director of the Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board, where he was responsible for the strategic planning, funding, and monitoring of the Glasgow college system. His extensive career in education includes a senior position at the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), faculty head of Creative Industries, an Education Scotland associate assessor role, and experience as a lecturer.

He also has a background in media, having worked as a journalist across print, broadcasting, and online platforms. His academic credentials include degrees in education, journalism, and English from Cambridge, Glasgow, Strathclyde, and Dundee universities. In addition, he currently serves as a Director of Kilmarnock Football Club in the Scottish Premier League.

Commenting on his appointment, Martin Boyle said:

"The Open University has been changing lives, unlocking opportunities, and showcasing the power of education for 55 years. It will be an honour and a privilege to play a role in that crucial work as Director of The Open University in Scotland. Our mission was radical in the 1960s, and it remains as radical and vital today – to bring open, flexible, relevant education to all, ensuring each and every one of our students from every part of Scotland has the very best chance to flourish.

“We provide access to education where it wouldn’t otherwise exist, and I’m hugely proud of the Open University’s Scottish roots. I can’t wait to get started, working alongside the fantastic Scottish team, our OU partners, and stakeholders to keep making a real difference. It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Susan Stewart as Director and thank her for her considerable contribution to the Open University and Scottish education."

Josie Fraser, Interim Vice- Chancellor of The Open University, congratulated Martin Boyle on his appointment, stating:

"I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Martin into his new role. His extensive leadership experience, deep understanding of the Scottish education landscape, and passion for widening access to education make him the ideal choice to lead The Open University in Scotland into its next chapter. After a competitive interview process, Martin won through an impressive field – giving us great confidence that he will build on the fantastic work of Susan Stewart and continue to drive positive change for all our students and for diverse communities across Scotland.”

Susan Stewart has been widely praised for her leadership over the past nine years, during which she has strengthened the OU’s presence and impact in Scotland. During her tenure, she expanded partnerships with key Scottish institutions and championed initiatives to widen access to higher education, particularly for underrepresented communities.

7 January 2025