McGill University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

McGill University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, alumni relations, academic administration, and institutional governance.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, McGill University fosters a global environment for scholarly advancement and community engagement across diverse faculties and schools.

Leadership Roles at McGill University

  • President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta) - Heidi Allardyce
  • Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic ) - Vanessa Aguilera
  • President - Jordan Leeson
  • President - Simonpietro Agostini
  • President - Umut Yılmaz
  • President - Phillipe Hutton
  • President - Scarbo Chan
  • Partnerships Vice- President. Vice- Présidente Partenariats - Justine Plouffe
  • President - Nicholas Desy
  • Secretary & Chief Information Officer, Office of The Information Technology Services - Gilyane Mathieu
  • Heidi Allardyce - President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta)

    Heidi Allardyce, the President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta) at McGill University, manages regional engagement strategies for the university's extensive graduate network. Overseeing outreach initiatives, the President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta) cultivates meaningful connections between the institution and its international community. This leadership role involves organizing professional development events and networking opportunities that strengthen the university's presence in North American markets. By facilitating mentorship programs, Heidi Allardyce bridges the gap between current students and established professionals. The President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta) coordinates with central administration to ensure that alumni contributions support the university's broader educational objectives. Through strategic communication and event planning, Allardyce enhances the reputation of the institution among global stakeholders. This position remains vital for sustaining long-term philanthropic support and fostering a lifelong commitment to the university's academic mission and community values.

    Vanessa Aguilera - Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic )

    Vanessa Aguilera, the Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic ) at McGill University, manages the complex operational workflows within the academic leadership division. Overseeing faculty coordination and curriculum support, the Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic ) ensures that institutional policies align with the university's rigorous educational standards. This role involves facilitating communication between various departments to streamline administrative processes and enhance academic productivity. By managing resource allocation for research and teaching initiatives, Vanessa Aguilera supports the university's commitment to scholarly excellence. The Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic ) works closely with senior leadership to implement strategic academic planning across all faculties. Through meticulous oversight of administrative functions, Aguilera maintains the integrity of the university's academic programs while fostering an environment conducive to intellectual growth and innovation.

    Jordan Leeson - President

    Jordan Leeson, the President at McGill University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the university. Overseeing the implementation of long-term academic and research goals, the President ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of global education. This leadership role involves managing high-level partnerships and representing the university to external stakeholders and government bodies. By fostering a culture of innovation, Jordan Leeson drives the development of new research initiatives and interdisciplinary programs. The President collaborates with the Board of Governors to maintain financial stability and operational excellence across all faculties. Through the promotion of inclusive excellence, Leeson strengthens the university's impact on society and its standing in the international academic community. This position requires constant engagement with faculty, staff, and students to ensure that the university's mission remains relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

    Simonpietro Agostini - President

    Simonpietro Agostini, the President at McGill University, focuses on the expansion of international research collaborations and global academic outreach. Overseeing the development of cross-border partnerships, the President facilitates the exchange of knowledge and resources between the university and other leading global institutions. This role involves identifying emerging trends in higher education and adapting the university's strategic framework to maintain a competitive edge. By championing interdisciplinary research, Simonpietro Agostini drives the creation of solutions for complex global challenges. The President works with academic deans to ensure that the university's curriculum reflects the latest advancements in science, technology, and the humanities. Through the cultivation of a diverse and inclusive campus environment, Agostini enhances the university's reputation as a destination for top-tier talent. This leadership role remains essential for securing the university's future as a hub for transformative research and education.

    Umut Yılmaz - President

    Umut Yılmaz, the President at McGill University, manages the optimization of internal operational processes and institutional resource management. Overseeing the efficiency of administrative departments, the President ensures that the university's infrastructure supports its core mission of teaching and research. This role involves streamlining budgetary procedures and enhancing the effectiveness of support services across all faculties. By implementing data-driven decision-making, Umut Yılmaz improves the overall performance of the university's administrative functions. The President coordinates with various stakeholders to ensure that institutional resources are directed toward high-impact projects and student success initiatives. Through the modernization of operational systems, Yılmaz fosters a more agile and responsive university environment. This leadership role is critical for maintaining the financial health and operational sustainability of the institution while supporting the diverse needs of the university community in a competitive academic market.

    Phillipe Hutton - President

    Phillipe Hutton, the President at McGill University, leads the university's efforts in community engagement and public service initiatives. Overseeing the development of programs that connect the university with the broader public, the President ensures that research findings and academic expertise benefit society at large. This role involves managing relationships with local and regional organizations to foster collaborative projects that address social and economic issues. By promoting public discourse and civic participation, Phillipe Hutton drives the university's commitment to social responsibility. The President works with faculty and student groups to organize outreach activities that highlight the university's contributions to the community. Through strategic communication and advocacy, Hutton enhances the public perception of the institution. This leadership role remains vital for maintaining the university's relevance and impact within the local and regional context while upholding the highest standards of academic integrity.
    Phillipe Hutton

    Scarbo Chan - President

    Scarbo Chan, the President at McGill University, directs the university's initiatives regarding student life and campus culture. Overseeing the development of student support services and extracurricular programs, the President ensures that the university provides a holistic educational experience. This role involves managing the integration of student wellness initiatives and academic support systems to promote student success. By fostering a vibrant campus community, Scarbo Chan drives the creation of an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. The President collaborates with student organizations and administrative staff to address the evolving needs of the student body. Through the implementation of inclusive policies, Chan enhances the overall student experience and strengthens the university's commitment to student development. This leadership role is essential for maintaining a supportive and engaging campus environment that prepares students for future success in their professional and personal lives.

    Justine Plouffe - Partnerships Vice- President. Vice- Présidente Partenariats

    Justine Plouffe, the Partnerships Vice- President. Vice- Présidente Partenariats at McGill University, manages the development of strategic alliances with industry leaders and research organizations. Overseeing the negotiation of collaborative agreements, the Partnerships Vice- President. Vice- Présidente Partenariats ensures that the university benefits from mutually advantageous relationships that drive innovation. This role involves identifying opportunities for joint research ventures and internship programs that provide students with real-world experience. By facilitating connections between faculty and external partners, Justine Plouffe supports the translation of academic research into practical applications. The Partnerships Vice- President. Vice- Présidente Partenariats works with senior leadership to align partnership strategies with the university's long-term growth objectives. Through the cultivation of a robust network of industry contacts, Plouffe enhances the university's capacity for research and development. This position remains critical for securing external funding and expanding the university's influence in the global marketplace.

    Nicholas Desy - President

    Nicholas Desy, the President at McGill University, oversees the university's sustainability and environmental initiatives. Managing the implementation of green campus policies, the President ensures that the institution reduces its carbon footprint and promotes sustainable practices across all faculties. This role involves coordinating with facilities management and research departments to integrate sustainability into the university's operations and curriculum. By championing environmental stewardship, Nicholas Desy drives the university's commitment to addressing climate change through research and action. The President works with student groups and external experts to develop innovative solutions for campus sustainability. Through the promotion of sustainable development goals, Desy enhances the university's reputation as a leader in environmental responsibility. This leadership role is essential for ensuring that the university operates in an environmentally conscious manner while preparing the next generation of leaders to tackle global environmental challenges.

    Gilyane Mathieu - Secretary & Chief Information Officer, Office of The Information Technology Services

    Gilyane Mathieu, the Secretary & Chief Information Officer, Office of The Information Technology Services at McGill University, directs the digital infrastructure and administrative governance for the institution. Overseeing the integration of advanced computing systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that all faculties and research centers maintain seamless access to essential data resources. This role involves architecting secure network frameworks that support the university's expansive academic mission. By modernizing legacy systems, Gilyane Mathieu optimizes operational efficiency across the Montreal campus and beyond. The Secretary & Chief Information Officer, Office of The Information Technology Services collaborates with academic leadership to align technological investments with long-term research goals. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols, the office protects sensitive institutional information while facilitating collaborative learning environments. Ultimately, Mathieu drives the digital transformation necessary for maintaining the university's status as a premier global research institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding McGill University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads McGill University?
    McGill University is led by Heidi Allardyce (President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta)), along with executives such as Vanessa Aguilera (Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic )) and Jordan Leeson (President).
    Who is part of McGill University’s executive team?
    The executive team of McGill University includes leaders such as Heidi Allardyce (President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta)), Vanessa Aguilera (Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic )), Jordan Leeson (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does McGill University have?
    McGill University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in McGill University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of McGill University includes roles such as President, Mcgill Alumni Association of (Atlanta), Administrative Coordinator & Provost, Office of & Vice Executive & President ( Academic ), President, President, President.