Electing a new Master

The Governing Body of St Catharine’s has begun the process of electing a new Master. Professor Sir Mark Welland (2016) is due to step down as Master when his seven-year term of office ends on 30 September 2023. His successor will be the fortieth person to hold the office since the College was founded in 1473.

As set out in the College’s statutes, the Master of St Catharine’s presides “over the College as a place of education, religion, learning and research”. This includes exercising a general superintendence and control over the affairs of the College, enforcing the observance of the statutes and ordinances, presiding at College Meetings and serving on College committees, “and in all matters not provided for by the Statutes and Ordinances to make provision for the good government, administration, and discipline of the College.”

The Governing Body comprises the Master and the Official and Professorial Fellows of St Catharine’s, who are also Trustees of the College as a registered charity. The College’s statutes give each of those Fellows a vote in the election of a new Master. In accordance with College practice, the Governing Body recently established a special Mastership Election Committee of nine Fellows to facilitate the election process.

Professor Stefan Marciniak (2011), Chair of the Mastership Election Committee, explained, “It is a privilege to be among the Fellows charged by the Governing Body with this important role. The election of a new Master is always a momentous event in the life of St Catharine’s. On this occasion we recognise Sir Mark’s calm leadership and his many important contributions to the College and the University, and we also try to anticipate the challenges that his successor may face.

“As a committee, we’re looking forward to working with all parts of our community, including students, staff, alumni and Fellows to understand what the College is seeking from our next Master. We are incredibly lucky that the St Catharine’s community spans a diverse range of professional and academic networks, which will undoubtedly help us reach qualified candidates when we are ready to start calling for applications.”

The College has also appointed Perrett Laver, a leading international executive search firm, to assist the Committee and the Governing Body. At this early stage in the process, any individuals interested in finding out more are welcome to contact stcatharines@perrettlaver.com