Public appointment: Chair reappointed to the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon MSP, today announced the reappointment of Dominic Fry as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE).

The Cabinet Secretary said:

I am delighted that Dominic has agreed to continue leading the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh for another four years. Continuity of leadership at a time of significant investment in the Gardens, not least ongoing delivery of the flagship Edinburgh Biomes project is critical to the continued success of the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.

Chair

Dominic Fry has had a successful career as a senior executive and trustee spanning retail, energy, the public sector, social mobility and the arts. He has over 30 years’ experience in senior, strategic communications roles lastly as Director of Communications and Investor Relations for Marks & Spencer. His strong commercial experience has led to him contributing to successful fundraising campaigns for several charities as a trustee. Dominic is also a Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of Police Now.

Reappointment

The reappointment is for four years from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2027.

The reappointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration and time commitment

The Chair of the Board of Trustees works a minimum of two days and a maximum of four days per month.  The role is non-remunerated.

Other ministerial appointments

Dominic Fry 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.

Dominic Fry has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

The RBGE is recognised as one of the top four Botanic gardens in the world.  Its mission is “to explore, conserve and explain the world of plants for a better future.”  It contributes significantly to the Scottish Government’s National outcomes, not only though protecting and enhancing our environment, but also in the fields of economic development, education and skills development, social inclusion and international cooperation.  As RBGE begins the most significant initiative in its history: the Edinburgh Biomes project will guarantee that its science and research remain resolutely focused on tackling the global biodiversity crisis and the climate emergency.