Trench heads up Land Commission

The Scottish Government has appointed a permanent chief executive for the newly formed Scottish Land Commission.

Hamish Trench will join the Inverness-based government agency later this summer, replacing interim chief executive Hilary Pierce.

He joins from the Cairngorms National Park Authority where he is director of conservation and visitor experience.

In the past he held other roles at the authority, including director of strategic land use and head of heritage and land development. A chartered surveyor, Mr Trench also previously worked as a land agent at Bidwells.

He has had several pieces of research published on issues such as community ownership and farming tenure.

“I am delighted to have been appointed chief executive of the Scottish Land Commission,” said Mr Trench.

“Working in such a new and exciting organisation and being part of driving land reform forward is a unique opportunity. It is a privilege to lead the commission at this important time and I look forward to working with commissioners, staff and other partner organisations.”

Mr Trench’s appointment was welcomed by the commission’s chairman Andrew Thin and land reform secretary Roseanna Cunningham.

Mr Thin said: “I am very pleased that Hamish is joining the commission. He has extensive knowledge and experience in land issues, as well as enthusiasm and drive to lead the organisation forward in developing and implementing our strategic plan.”

Ms Cunningham added: “As a chartered surveyor with extensive experience in the public and private sectors, he will bring leadership and focus to land reform issues, shaping future developments and ensuring that land continues to play a major part in helping communities across Scotland realise their potential.

“I wish him great success with this crucial work.”

The Scottish Land Commission was set up as part of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016.

It is tasked with reviewing law and policy and making recommendations to government ministers on any matter relating to Scotland’s land.

Hamish Trench joins the agency from the Cairngorms National Park Authority.