The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
SCDI board shake-up follows review
The board of the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) has undergone a major shake-up with a raft of new appointments.
The move comes six months after new chief executive Mark Bevan took up his role and instituted a major review of the organisation’s operations.
The assessment found there was an urgent need to act in Scotland’s best economic and social interests and the new appointees have been brought on board to deliver on the vision.
“SCDI’S board has demonstrated exceptional strength in identifying the need for change in Scotland, for a need for all of the actors in our economy to become architects of our economic future and to put our economy to work for everyone who lives here,” CEO Mark Bevan said.
“Following my appointment in May, we undertook a thorough review with the assistance of our members and supported by Mckinsey and Company.
“The conclusion of that review, is that the SCDI has a unique role to play as Scotland’s Economic and Social Forum and that there is an urgent need to act.
“This means drawing from our near 90-year heritage and setting a level of future ambition commensurate with Scotland’s leading lights across the private, public and not for profit sectors.
“I am delighted to announce a number of high-level appointments from across civic Scotland to complement our existing board.”
The new appointees include Scotch Whisky Association CEO Karen Betts, RBS chief economist Stephen Boyle, serial entrepreneur and Clyde Blowers chairman, and CEO Jim Mccoll.
Visitscotland boss Malcolm Roughhead has also signed up, as has Lord Andrew Dunlop, the former Minister for Scotland who, in office, took a lead role in promoting the economic and social regeneration of Dundee.
“SCDI holds a unique place in Scottish life looking at how businesses, the public sector and government can all work together to secure our sustainable economic growth,” SCDI president, Lady Susan Rice, said.
“These new appointments, and the decision of these leaders from across Scotland to help guide the organisation, shows the strength we have in convening those who want to shape this country’s future.”