AlumniGordon Muir

Course studied: BEng(Hons) Electronic and Electrical Engineering, 1995

Position at time of writing: Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development, Emerson 

Tell us about your background

I was born and raised in the North of Scotland, and I spent much of my time outdoors, whether it was sports or climbing around the Highlands. Academically, STEM subjects always felt natural to me - not just for their structure but the intrigue around their application and the potential to solve real-world challenges. I went on to study Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Strathclyde, where Glasgow quickly found a special and permanent place in my heart.

After university, I remained in Glasgow and joined TESCOM, an industry leader known for its high stakes work in pressure control across sectors like aerospace, alternative energy, diving, semiconductors and subsea. In 2000, I relocated to the US to focus on ultra-high purity applications in semiconductors. Emerson (NYSE: EMR) acquired TESCOM in 2004, and since then, I’ve been fortunate to always work internationally, taking on 14 different leadership roles spanning product management, marketing, engineering, operations, sales, M&A, and P&L ownership.  Completing my MBA at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management was a pivotal step, broadening my perspective on global business dynamics.

I am immensely grateful for my career journey, especially for the incredible people and experiences that have shaped my path. 

Why did you choose Strathclyde?

Strathclyde was by far my first choice. The University’s leading reputation in engineering, paired with its practical approach to bridging theory with real-world application, was highly appealing. Glasgow, with its rich industrial and technological history, offered an ideal environment, and Strathclyde’s emphasis on producing graduates who are both technically proficient and business-minded aligned perfectly with my goals. Plus, my brother went there, and he’s a ‘clever fella’! 

Where are you now? 

Currently, I’m based in the New York area as the Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development for Emerson (NYSE: EMR), a global technology and software company combining innovative solutions and industry-leading expertise for the world’s essential industries. In this role, I lead inorganic growth for the business, identifying and executing strategic acquisitions, business development opportunities, and venture capital investments that align with Emerson’s broader objectives. 

My focus is on expanding our global reach and capabilities in the industrial and factory automation sectors, while also contributing to corporate strategy and growth initiatives that push the boundaries of innovation. This work allows us to tackle the challenges of an increasingly complex and unpredictable marketplace in close partnership with our customers. It’s a fulfilling and expansive role to collaborate with our business units, world areas, corporate teams, and the investment community to bring these ambitious plans to life.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

It’s difficult to pick ‘the’ highlight, so I think it has to be the journey. I left Scotland in 2000 for “a couple of years”, but I still haven’t purchased that return ticket. Along the way, I’ve met incredible people who have had the most profound impact on my career, and my life.  The experiences I've had while visiting and absorbing the rich cultures of 72 countries (and counting) have shaped me both personally and professionally. It’s definitely the journey that stands out as the highlight, and for that, I will be forever thankful.

Ambitions for the future

Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue taking on global roles that drive growth in innovation-focused organizations.  The world certainly isn’t short of complex problems to tackle, and staying engaged with teams and segments solving these is a rewarding environment I’ll keep playing in. Impact through governance is another area I’m keen to explore, particularly in areas where technology can make a meaningful difference in industrial and economic development.

I also hope to be more actively involved in leadership development, both inside and outside of work. There’s nothing quite like mentoring and seeing others thrive (and feeling you may have played a small part in their success). I was lucky enough to have had a couple of phenomenal mentors early in my career; these relationships have spanned decades and remain dear to me.

On a personal note, I’m gradually reclaiming time to soak in the great outdoors, which has been a bit neglected over recent years. I’m picking up pace and feeling good for it - one hike or bike ride at a time!

You've held a number of senior roles at Emerson – what are your tips for Strathclyders looking to progress within their organisation?

It may sound counterintuitive, but don’t be too eager to climb the ladder too fast – focus first on excelling in your current role. Lean in, generate value, and be the first to support your team. Raise your hand for impactful stretch assignments, and if presented with opportunities to traverse disciplines, take them! There’s no better way to broaden your perceptions, leadership skills, and foundational business acumen.

Embrace people who challenge your thinking and provide fresh perspectives. It's essential to engage genuinely with your teams at all levels and create environments where open dialogue and feedback can flourish. Be authentic in all that you broach.

Be deliberate in your personal development, and critically, seek mentorship from those you respect - and who respect you - to help guide you on developing new skills and navigate your career path. Finally, stay adaptable. Business landscapes evolve rapidly, and those who are flexible in their thinking and approach are often the ones to uncover the paths to progress.