HIGHLAND Housing Alliance (HHA) has announced the appointment of Rory Mair CBE as its new chair.
He brings more than three decades of leadership experience across Scotland’s public and third sectors to the role and served as chief executive of COSLA, the national voice of Scottish local government, from 2002 to 2015.
Earlier in his career, Rory was chief executive of Ross and Cromarty District Council. He also served as director of Aviemore Projects for Highlands and Islands Enterprise and, following local government reorganisation in 1996, as strategic director for Social Strategy at Fife Council.
More recently, Rory chaired Citizens Advice Scotland for six years from 2017. He continues to hold several governance positions, including chair of Edinburgh charity Vintage Vibes. He was awarded a CBE in 2012 for services to local government.
He takes up his new role at a defining time for the Highlands. Significant economic opportunities and major infrastructure projects, including the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and the upgrade of the north of Scotland’s electricity transmission network, are expected to bring new investment and jobs to the region.
However, HHA said their success will depend on ensuring people can access high-quality, affordable homes in the communities where they live and work. Since its inception, HHA has delivered 647 homes across the region, with almost 65 more currently under construction.
Rory Mair CBE said, “The Highlands gave me my first senior leadership role and have been my home ever since, so the opportunity to help address one of the region’s most pressing challenges matters greatly to me. HHA has a clear purpose and a strong record of delivering high-quality homes at MMR rents.
“As chair, my focus will be on building on those foundations, supporting the growth of HHA and ensuring it plays its full part in meeting the region’s housing needs. The Highlands is entering a period of significant economic opportunity, but that potential will only be realised if there are enough homes for the people needed to support its communities and growing industries.”
Gail Matheson, chief executive of HHA, added, “Rory brings exactly the breadth of experience and insight HHA needs as we increase delivery. His understanding of the Highlands, local government and the partnerships required to bring new homes forward will be a considerable asset to our board. We look forward to working with Rory as we strengthen our ambitions and deliver more of the high-quality homes that the region urgently needs.”
