Gary Campbell is new chief executive at the Crofting Commission

THE Crofting Commission has a new chief executive.

Gary Campbell, who will be based in Inverness,and has worked in the public and private sectors in the Highlands and Islands, is delighted to be taking on his new role.

He said: "I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing crofting and am passionate about supporting crofters and their communities to thrive. I look forward to working with the Commission’s Board, staff and stakeholders to deliver on the Commission’s strategic plan and to help shape the future of crofting in Scotland."

Mr Campbell, who grew up on the family croft in Argyll, worked as a chartered accountant for 30 years and as a the chief executive of a Tain manufacturing company before taking up a senior management position with the University of the Highlands and Islands.

The chairman of the Crofting Commission, Malcolm Mathieson, said: "Gary brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role and is passionate about supporting crofting and rural communities. I am confident that Gary will be a valuable asset ... and will lead the organisation effectively in the years to come.”

The Scottish Crofting Federation chief executive, Donna Smith, said: " I’d like to congratulate Gary on his appointment and very much look forward to an early meeting with him." She would like the Commission to "ensure that as many crofts as possible are occupied, maintained and put to purposeful use.

Scottish Minister for Energy and the Environment, Gillian Martin, is delighted Mr Campbell has accepted the position. He succeeds Bill Barron.

Ms Martin said: "I would like to thank Bill Barron for his service as chief executive. Under his tenure the Crofting Commission successfully navigated a number of challenges. The Commission is now focused on improving its function as an effective regulator and to helping to deliver Scottish Government priorities for crofting, not least to increase the active use of crofts and common grazings.

"I know that Gary will bring a range of skills and experience to this role and look forward to working closely with him."

Mr Campbell takes up his new role on January 3.

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