The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has appointed Alex Paterson as its next chief executive.

Paterson joins in May and until last year had spent eight years as CEO of Historic Environment Scotland.

He has also spent six years in the same role leading Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Scottish government’s economic development agency for the region to fund and support the local economy.

He joins the RHASS after a period “interrogating finances and streamlining” the organisation’s processes.

“Alex will play a pivotal role in driving forward the new strategic approach, ensuring focus is very much on being efficient and effective and he will lead with transparency and accountability,” said the charity.

Paterson said: “Joining the RHASS Group at such an important time is incredibly exciting. The organisation’s commitment to innovation and supporting those from within rural Scotland is something I greatly admire.

“I’m eager to help shape the future strategic direction of the RHASS Group to ensure a lasting legacy for the agriculture and event sector and for those that live and work in it.”

The charity’s chair James Logan added: “Alex brings with him a wealth of experience and we are thrilled to welcome him to the RHASS Group as our Chief Executive.

“In his previous roles he has successfully handled challenging issues and major organisational change and we are positive that he will help us to shape the future strategic direction of the organisation both commercially and in advancing the work RHASS does to move forward with our mission to support Scottish agriculture and rural communities.”

“We have a very proud history at RHASS and Alex will help drive innovation and help forge exciting opportunities for the future of the charity, our staff, our members and the sector.”

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