HIE appoints area manager for Shetland

She joined HIE in 2003 and has been based within the Shetland team in a variety of roles, including head of business growth and head of strengthening communities.

Most recently, she was interim area manager following Rachel Hunter’s move to head up the organisation’s service delivery team. She has played a key role in a wide range of developments in Shetland, working closely with public and private sector stakeholders.

As a born and bred Shetlander, originally from Lerwick, she is a graduate of the University of Glasgow, where she gained a MA (hons) in Geography, followed by an MSc in Local Economic Development.

Katrina lives in Lerwick with her husband and two children. She also coaches mini rugby and plays for the Shetland ladies rugby team. 

Katrina said: “I am delighted to be appointed as area manager, leading the team during an exciting time for the Shetland economy. Our unique location provides us with the opportunity to play a key role in the energy transition and the development of the global space sector. We’ll continue to develop growth opportunities in our strong marine sectors including aquaculture and tourism.”

Commenting on Katrina’s new role, Carroll Buxton, interim chief executive at HIE, said:

“Katrina is well known and respected in Shetland and will make an excellent addition to the team of area managers. The next few years will be important as Shetland recovers from the effects of the pandemic and makes progress towards our Net Zero ambitions.

“With her wealth of invaluable knowledge from one of our highest priority areas and her partnership working skills, which are vital at this time, Katrina is best placed to lead the Shetland area team.”