Chair of HIE to retire in July

The chair of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has announced plans to retire from the role in July.

Alistair Dodds CBE has served on the HIE board for 11 years. He was appointed chair in 2020 and reappointed for a second term in 2023, which was due to last until April 2026.

However, in a letter this week to Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, Mr Dodds said he felt it was important for HIE to have a new Board chair appointed well before the pre-election period for the new Scottish Parliament elections to ensure they are in place to work with the next Government.

He also stressed that his successor should have the opportunity to be involved with the recruitment of three new HIE Board members who will be required to replace those whose terms end in August 2026.

He added:

“It has been an immense privilege to serve on the Board and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the Scottish Government, businesses, communities, local authorities and partners across the public, private and third sectors.

“Our economy and communities are in a very positive place, with huge potential for unprecedented investment and job creation. I am convinced that HIE will continue to deliver strong performance and positive outcomes for the Scottish Government and that the Highlands and Islands will greatly benefit the economy of Scotland over the next 15 years and beyond.”

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

“I am grateful for the huge amount of time and commitment Alistair has put into Highlands and Islands Enterprise over 11 years, the last five as Chair leading the agency.

“Highlands and Islands Enterprise plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth across the north of Scotland. Thanks to Alistair’s leadership, it is in a strong position to continue helping businesses and communities realise the region’s enormous economic potential and benefit from the many opportunities that lie ahead.”

Originally from Kelso, Alistair moved to the Highlands in 1991 and now lives in Inverness.

He previously held senior management positions in The Highland Council over a period of 18 years, including a six-year stint as chief executive until August 2013.