Consultants
Full-Spectrum Leadership
Jamie Cumming-Wesley
Senior Partner
Edinburgh U.K.
Get in TouchA Senior Partner in WittKieffer’s Education Practice, Jamie Cumming-Wesley brings significant experience advising and supporting universities and other research-intensive institutions on senior appointments at board, Vice-Chancellor, and executive level. His knowledge and networks across higher education both in the UK and internationally enable him to source from global talent pools for the most senior roles. Jamie has led and advised on the appointment of Vice-Chancellors across the Russell Group, smaller research intensives, and modern/teaching-led institutions. He has also advised on the appointment of many Chief Scientific Advisors for government departments alongside executive-level and CEO recruitment across UKRI, science and innovation policy, and R&D. He is known for his candidate analysis in respect to specific client needs, constructive challenge and support, clear communication, and appreciation of the importance of the academic and scientific communities to the UK. His work is values-led, guided by integrity, ethics, and discretion.
Prior to joining WittKieffer, Jamie served as Head of Practice, Research, Innovation and Higher Education for a leading international executive recruiting firm. He led the firm into a commanding position in higher education and developed significant market share, securing the firm’s first Russell Group Vice-Chancellor appointments in nearly 15 years. Jamie began with the organisation more than a decade before, beginning as a researcher before moving into the search consulting ranks. He also served as a Director-nominated Trustee on the firm’s board.
In his personal time, Jamie likes to go on adventures with his two children, and occasionally finds the time to write contemporary choral music, play hockey, and watch Formula 1.
Education
MSt, Musicology & Composition, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K.
BA (Hons), Music 2.i, Durham University, Durham, U.K.