Educated at Rhodes University, Professor Steve Olivier is an experienced leader in the higher education sector, both in the UK and internationally.
He was appointed as Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland. Prior to joining RGU, Professor Olivier held the role of Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the West of Scotland He was previously Vice-Principal and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Abertay University.
With more than thirty years’ experience of working in universities, Professor Olivier serves on a variety of Scottish and UK-wide higher education bodies and groups. He is a member of the elected leadership group of Universities Scotland. He represents all Scottish universities in his capacity as Convenor of the Learning and Teaching Committee of Universities Scotland. He has delivered many international invited speeches, most notably on change leadership, and is an active researcher, publishing widely in applied ethics and sport. He performs civic duties as a Burgess of Guild of the City and Royal Burgh of Aberdeen.
Until recently, he served for several years as a crew member in the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Outside of work he still surfs, swims, does long solo surf ski paddles, and is active in surf lifesaving in his role as President of the Aberdeen Surf Lifesaving Club. He previously competed in many and varied outdoor endurance events, after long rugby playing and coaching background.
Professor Olivier liaises closely with Rhodes, including in his capacity of founder and senior trustee of the Ally Weakley Memorial Bursary. He recently represented the University by conferring an Honorary Doctorate on Lord Peter Hain on behalf of Professor Sizwe Mabizela. He also successfully steered through the University the naming of the Ally Weakley Great Field as part of the University’s 120-year celebrations.
Last Modified: Fri, 17 May 2024 11:38:52 SAST