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The Principal of the University of St Andrews serves as the Chief Executive of the institution. They are responsible for the overall running of the university, presiding over the supreme acting body of the university known as the academic senate and conferring degrees in the absence of the Chancellor. The Principal is elected by the University Court. Beginning in 1859 after the Universities (Scotland) Act 1858, it has been convention for the person appointed Principal to be appointed Vice-Chancellor by the Chancellor, in order to fulfill the ceremonial aspects of his role in his absence.
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History
The Principal's Office of the University of St Andrews dates in effect from 1858. Until the mid 1700s the University comprised three colleges and the Provosts of St Salvator's College and Principals of St Leonard's College and St Mary's College were responsible for the oversight of their own institutions.