Tristan Aitken obtained his BSc (Hons) from the University of Glasgow, his MSc in HRM from the Strathclyde Business School and more recently his EMBA from UCD Smurfit Business School. Having had the opportunity to work across many global markets, he has developed a career in Human Resources Management largely in the private sector working with such organisations as News Corporations, Mercer, Heineken, and Diageo plc during which typically his focus has been on driving and supporting organisation change and growth to help equip markets, functions and teams to perform better. 

In late 2015 he was appointed to the position of UCD Human Resources Director and with his teams set about developing and implementing human resources strategies, services and partnerships, which directly contribute to the achievement of the University’s aims and priorities, transforming the organisational culture to enable UCD to become both a University and an Employer of choice; on a National and International platform and working to enable all faculty and staff members to achieve their full potential whilst encouraging diversity and equality of opportunity 

In 2018 his remit was extended to include directing the activities for Safety, Insurance, Risk, Compliance and Legal Affairs departments including GDPR and FOI. 

Whilst in role Tristan has held several leadership positions (external to institution) including Chair of the IUA HRD Forum, Member of the HR Policy Workgroup – reporting to the Department of Education and Skills,  Council Member for the 30% Club – promoting more women in Leadership  and Council Member of Gartner Research.