FORMER leader of the Scottish Labour Party Wendy Alexander has been appointed as the international ambassador for a leading university.
Dundee University has named Ms Alexander as its first vice-principal for international development to help expand its influence around the globe.
Ms Alexander, who will take up her post in April, joins the university from the London Business School, where she is currently associate dean for global business covering expansion in China, the Middle East and the United States.
Professor Pete Downes, Dundee University's principal, said Ms Alexander would bring "energy, expertise and strategic leadership" to the institution.
He added: "The international outlook is more important than ever for universities as we are operating on a global stage in everything we do from welcoming students to Dundee from all over the world to delivering the impact of our research directly to many countries.
"Wendy has vast experience working in the international sector in higher education, government and industry and that will prove invaluable to the university as we further develop our international profile."
Ms Alexander said she was honoured by her appointment. She added: "The university's research and teaching is known worldwide for its excellence, and its expertise is increasingly in demand.
"Dundee already has links in the Middle East and its reputation is such that there are a number of countries, including China and across Africa and Asia, that want to form partnerships to take advantage of its international stature."
Ms Alexander was an MSP for twelve years, serving in the first three Scottish cabinets as Minister for Enterprise, Lifelong Learning and Transport, where her responsibilities included higher education.
She replaced Jack McConnell as Scottish Labour leader in 2007, but stepped down the following year "with deep regret" after breaking the rules on declaring donations. Her brother Douglas Alexander is shadow foreign secretary.
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