New boss at helm of conservation charity

Dundee-based David Gibson has taken over at the helm of the John Muir Trust conservation charity.

Mr Gibson, an experienced trekker and accomplished Munroist, worked at board level in commercial development for more than 20 years before becoming chief executive at Mountaineering Scotland.

He has since served as a trustee for the John Muir Trust and said he was looking forward to a more senior role, with a pledge to work with local communities and land managers.

At the same time, Mr Gibson aims to continue the work he did in his former role in challenging inappropriate development in the mountains.

He said: “The trust can make a real difference to people’s lives and to the landscape.

“It is a catalyst for change; whether managing the renewal of land with local partners, working to change land management practices or inspiring more people from all walks of life to enjoy and protect wild places.

“I’m confident in our team and, thanks to our members and supporters, I’m confident about the future stability of the trust.

“In my time at Mountaineering Scotland, we sometimes took a highprofile stance against inappropriate development in the mountains.

“It was a team effort, often working in partnership with other environmental NGOs including the John Muir Trust. I hope I can serve the organisation with enthusiasm, openness and confidence.”

The trust was formed in 1983 and took its name from its Scots-born founder who campaigned for the protection of wild places.

It boasts more than 25,000 members and generates more than £1 million-worth of conservation volunteering annually.

David Gibson, now chairman of the John Muir Trust.