CONSTRUCTION Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) has appointed Ross Cairns as its business relationship manager for the north of Scotland area.
Described as an innovation and construction expert, Ross had previously been a lecturer and programme leader of a construction degree programme, and also spent time serving as the chair of the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) Highlands and Islands branch.
The newly created role is on the back of CSIC’s new £10.98m Phase 2 funding programme and a further funding commitment of £500,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), where the role will be based.
Ross Cairns said on his new role, “I firmly believe there are fantastic opportunities for the construction sector to innovate. We will be delivering an events programme to ensure as many construction businesses as possible across the region can access the latest research and the chance to work together, with a variety of partners, to drive projects forward that will support industry growth and modernisation.”
Steven Hutcheon, head of technology & engineering at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, added, “We are delighted to fund this post over the next 5 years as it will facilitate transformational projects to deliver greater innovation and economic impact for the construction sector across the region.”
Lucy Black, head of business relationships at CSIC, said, “This collaboration with HIE supports our commitment to expand our range of services and activities throughout Scotland as part of phase two of our strategy.”
“Ross has a vast experience across both industry and academia and I am confident that he will play a vital role in leading, developing and implementing a range of public sector, industry and academia partnershipsto create transformational change and growth in the construction sector.”
