Public appointment: Interim Chair appointment extended for Scottish Enterprise

Mairi McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Net Zero and Energy announced today that Dr Willie Mackie’s appointment as interim chair for Scottish Enterprise would be extended for a further 9 months.

Chair

Dr Willie Mackie established a consultancy business in 2013 after an extensive career in financial services. Over the last 20 years, he has held a number of senior roles supporting skills, education and economic development.  He joined the Scottish Enterprise Board in 2016 as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. In 2019, he was appointed Deputy Chair and subsequently to the role of interim Chair in 2022. He was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of West of Scotland for services to skills, education and economic development.

Extension

The extension will run for 9 months from 1 April 2024.

During this period Dr Mackie will continue to undertake interim Chair responsibilities.  

This extension is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

For the duration of this extension, Dr Mackie will receive £541.00 per day for performing the functions of interim Chair. The time commitment is 30 days per year, however, it will be proportionate to the term of the extension.

Other ministerial appointments

Dr Mackie is the Interim Chair at Prestwick Aviation Holdings Ltd. for which he receives remuneration of £450 per day, for a time commitment of 30 days per year.

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.   

Dr Mackie has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

As the national economic development agency for Scotland, Scottish Enterprise plays a critical role in helping to fulfil Scotland’s economic potential. Through its renewed focus on impactful investment, supporting world leading innovation and ensuring Scotland’s ability to attract international investment, Scottish Enterprise - working with key partners - is at the forefront of change to ensure our business community is well supported through the current economic challenges and beyond. The agency will play a key role in delivering Scottish Ministers’ ambitions for the future of Scotland’s economy as set out in the National Strategy for Economic Transformation.