Scottish Enterprise has announced the appointment of Adrian Gillespie as its new chief executive.
He joins from the University of Strathclyde where, as chief commercial officer, he was executive team leader overseeing the growth of its industry facing activities and the development of economic development projects such as the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland and the Glasgow City Innovation District.
Prior to his time at the university, Gillespie spent 16 years at Scottish Enterprise, where he held leadership positions in the technology and energy sectors, before becoming managing director, leading support for high growth companies, innovation, entrepreneurship and infrastructure development.
The post came up after previous chief executive Steve Dunlop stood down last October, after only two-and-a-half years in the role.
Economy Secretary Kate Forbes said: “This is a crucial time for business, trade and investment in Scotland and I look forward to working with Adrian, and leaders from across our business community, to push forward with an ambitious agenda of recovery and economic transformation.
“By working together and galvanising the expertise and ingenuity of businesses, trade unions and workforces, we will be able to seize Scotland’s economic potential and deliver greater, greener and fairer prosperity.”
Scottish Enterprise chairman, Lord Smith of Kelvin, commented: “Adrian has extensive knowledge in economic development which, coupled with his leadership abilities and recent experience at the University of Strathclyde, will bring a strong mix of skills and fresh perspective at a critical point in Scotland’s economic recovery.”
Gillespie added: “I’m very much looking forward to re-joining the talented team at Scottish Enterprise, and to working closely with our partners in business, academia and government to support recovery, innovation and growth across the country.”
He will officially take up the post on 1 September, with a salary of £180,000 per annum.
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