A well-known face in the Scottish farming sector has been appointed as the new chairman of SRUC.
Pat Machray, who is currently vice-chairman at the rural college, will take on the role in October and replace Lord Jamie Lindsay who has been in post for eight years.
Mr Machray already serves as the chairman of north-east farmers’ co-operative ANM Group, and up until earlier this year served as the group’s chief executive.
SRUC acting chief executive, Janet Swadling, said: “Jamie has brought great wisdom and leadership to help steer SRUC through a number of significant developments during the last eight years, including the 2012 merger that saw SAC join forces with Barony, Elmwood and Oatridge Colleges to form SRUC. I sincerely thank him for his commitment to his role as chairman and for all the advice and guidance he has offered.
“In taking over from Jamie, Pat brings a huge level of experience and knowledge that I am certain will serve us well as we work towards strengthening further SRUC’s critical role throughout Scotland’s rural sector and increasing the growth and influence of our national and international activities.”
Mr Machray said: “I wish to acknowledge the huge amount of work that Jamie has put in over the years as SRUC’s chairman. He has worked tirelessly and achieved a great deal in that time, particularly around the merger that formed SRUC which was not without its challenges.
“It’s a great honour to be appointed as Jamie’s successor at such an important time for the organisation. Along with the board I will ensure we deliver on our strategy for future investment and growth for the benefit of the broader rural community.”
SRUC has also confirmed three new appointments to its boards, as well as two planned exits.
Professor Christine Williams from the University of Reading will join the SRUC board.
While Norfolk farmer John Cross – the chair of the Bovine TB eradication advisory group for England – and Jimmy McLean – the chairman of agriculture at RBS – will join the SAC Commercial Ltd board.
This follows confirmation that Professor Grahame Bulfield and John Gilliland will stand down in October.
All academic and government funded not-for-profit business is conducted through SRUC, while commercial activities are carried out by SAC Commercial Ltd.
In March this year SRUC appointed former NFU Scotland president, Nigel Miller, to both the SRUC and SAC Commercial Ltd boards.