The Scottish Government has announced that Business School Honorary Professor Deb Roberts has joined the Board of the Scottish Land Commission.
One of three appointments published today, Professor Roberts, Honorary Chair in Real Estate at the University, takes on the role of Commissioner.
She is joined by former Environment Minister Michael Russell who has been appointed Chair, replacing the outgoing Andrew Thin; and Dr Craig Mackenzie of the University of Edinburgh, who is also a new Commissioner. All appointments are for a five year period.
Currently Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Science at the James Hutton Institute, Professor Roberts was previously a member of staff in the Business School’s Land Economy/Real Estate Department.
She trained as an agricultural economist and, before moving into her current position, her research focussed on understanding how agricultural and environmental policies affect economic development and social well-being in rural areas.
"It is a huge honour and privilege to be joining the Scottish Land Commission as a Commissioner and to have the opportunity to build on the progress made by my predecessors,” said Professor Roberts
“The importance of land for Scotland’s economy, environment and society has never been clearer and we are at a critical stage in the Land Reform process. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in shaping Scotland's land policies for the benefit of all."
Hamish Trench, Chief Executive at the Scottish Land Commission said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming such a breadth of experience to our board. It marks another key milestone for our work as a Commission and we’re looking forward to the fresh thinking and knowledge the new board members will bring in shaping land reform.”
The Scottish Land Commission is a public body wholly funded by the Scottish Government to advise on changes to law, policy, and practice. The Board of Commissioners sets the strategic direction of the organisation and is supported by a team of staff based in Inverness.