Public appointment: Chair reappointed to VisitScotland Board

The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport today announced the reappointment of Stephen Leckie as Chair of the Board of VisitScotland. 

 

Chair 

Stephen is CEO and Executive Chair of Crieff Hydro, a family run hotel and estate. The company is now the oldest trading registered company in Scotland. 

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. 

Stephen is a long-time advocate for Scotland's wider tourism and business community and was previously invited to serve as Chair of the Scottish Government's Tourism Leadership Group. 

As a longstanding Chair, he is experienced in working to maximise the impact of boards and organisations. Most recently, Stephen served as Chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) until March 2024. 

 

Reappointment 

This reappointment will be for 3 years and will run from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2030. 

This reappointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner. 

 

Remuneration 

This reappointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £424 per day for a time commitment of 84 days per year. 

 

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 and economic growth agency 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.