Public appointment: Chair appointed to the Board of VisitScotland

The Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade, Richard Lochhead MSP, today announced the appointment of Stephen Leckie as Chair of the Board of VisitScotland.

Chair

Stephen Leckie is CEO and Executive Chair of Crieff Hydro. He is a long-time advocate for Scotland’s wider tourism and has been a longstanding committee member for UK Hospitality. He is also currently Chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Lord-Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross.  He brings a broad background to VisitScotland.  As an operator of hotels, self-catering and attractions across different parts of rural Scotland, Stephen is well versed in the challenges and opportunities on the ground; as a longstanding Chair, he is familiar with working to maximise the impact of boards and organisations.

Stephen intends to step down from his roles with the Scottish Tourism Alliance and Scottish Chamber of Commerce in the coming year.

Appointment

The appointment is for three years from 1 April 2024 until 31 March 2027.

The appointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration and time commitment

The appointment attracts remuneration of £35,616 per annum for a time commitment of up to seven days per month.

Other Ministerial appointments

Stephen does not hold any other public appointments.

Political activity

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.

Stephen has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

VisitScotland is the Scottish Government Non-Departmental Public Body responsible for promoting the interests of the Scottish tourism and events industry. It has wide statutory powers to promote Scotland as a quality destination; and to drive the visitor economy, growing its value to Scotland. VisitScotland has a core budget of around £45 million per annum. It is funded in part by the Scottish Government.