New chair at SSPO
Anne MacColl, the former head of Scottish Development International (SDI), has replaced Phil Thomas as the Chair of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO).
Ms MacColl was chief executive of SDI, the international economic development agency for Scotland, between 2010 and 2015. The organisation helps Scottish business overseas and attracts inward investment. More recently, she has been working with the University of Stirling as Associate Director within the Research & Enterprise team, with a focus on international business development, aquaculture, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Ms MacColl said: “During my years at SDI I was always aware that salmon and whisky are iconic products which instantly suggest Scotland and its high quality products, whether you are in the Far East, Europe or America. My recent work with Stirling University which includes the Institute of Aquaculture gave me great insights into the industry and its highly specialised operations. When the opportunity arose to become Chair of the SSPO, which has helped farmed salmon become Scotland’s number one food export, I was delighted to become involved. I hope I can bring some of my international trade and investment experience to further the industry’s development.”
Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive of SSPO, said: "I am delighted that Anne is joining us as Chair. She has been a champion of Scottish farmed salmon for many years and recognises salmon farming as one of Scotland’s strategic industries. I’m sure that she will bring much useful experience to the industry as it continues to drive exports, employment and its local and national economic success.”
Ms MacColl takes up the role as former chairman, Professor Phil Thomas, has decided to step down after eight successful years.
She spent her first couple of days out on farms meeting workers in Shetland as part of her tour of the industry and its companies.
