Public appointment: Deputy Chair and Member appointment extended on the Architecture and Design Scotland Board

The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic Màiri McAllan MSP today announced the extension to the appointments of Kirsty Macari as Deputy Chair and a Member of the Architecture and Design Scotland Board.

Deputy Chair and Member

Kirsty Macari is an experienced urban planning and design educator who brings strategic insight and a strong commitment to high-quality, sustainable places. She has a proven track record in corporate governance, collaborative working and constructive management, ensuring that decisions are well informed and aligned with long term public value. As Acting Chair, Kirsty provides clear, confident leadership that supports the organisation to steer the changing operating context and meet emerging challenges across Scotland's built environment. Her work in higher education strengthens her ability to champion innovation, digital futures and evidence-based planning. Known for her passion to her work, she fosters inclusive dialogue and promotes design excellence across sectors. She is dedicated to supporting A&DS in inspiring and influencing the creation of healthy, resilient and people focussed buildings and places.

Extension

This extension will be from 1 October 2026 to 14 April 2027.

This extension is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

This extension is part-time and attracts a remuneration as a Board Member of £196.16 per day for a time commitment of 24 days per year and as Deputy Chair of £218.38 per day for a time commitment of 48 days per year.

Other ministerial appointments

Kirsty Macari 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. 

Kirsty Macari has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) was established in 2005 to promote good architecture and sustainable design.

As an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, A&DS promotes the value of good design, increase efficiency and impact of public buildings, supports the delivery of the Scottish Government’s objectives and outcomes as set out in the National Performance Framework (NPF).