Former Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross SNP election candidate lands role at government agency
The former SNP candidate for the Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross seat in last year’s general election has landed a new role with a Scottish Government agency.
Lucy Beattie has been appointed as a commissioner with the Scottish Land Commission after losing out to Liberal Democrat MP Jamie Stone in the November vote.
Dr Beattie, who lives in Ullapool and has experience in crofting, as well as rural and community development, is joined by Dr Calum MacLeod and Robert Black on the organisation’s board.
Dr Beattie and Dr MacLeod have joined as Land Commissioners, while Robert Black takes up the mantle of Tenant Farming Commissioner, succeeding Dr Bob McIntosh.
The commission says that the trio bring a wealth of expertise in community engagement, sustainable development and tenant farming, and are poised to drive forward Scotland’s land reform agenda.
They are replacing outgoing commissioners Dr Sally Reynolds, Lorne MacLeod, and Dr Bob McIntosh.
Chief executive Hamish Trench said: “We are immensely grateful to Sally, Lorne and Bob for their dedication and leadership in delivering a fair and inclusive approach to land reform. Their work over eight years has done much to improve opportunities for communities, businesses and individuals to benefit from Scotland’s land.
“With Lucy, Calum and Robert, we gain exceptional expertise and experience to build on this vital work.”
Dr Beattie said: “With over two decades of working directly with rural communities, I’ve seen how effective land management can unlock opportunities and I’m excited to contribute my knowledge and experience to the commission’s work.”
Michael Russell, chairperson of the board, highlighted the importance of the commissioners’ roles in delivering impactful change.
“The board’s role is to ensure land reform delivers real and lasting benefits,” he said. “Sally, Lorne and Bob have made an outstanding contribution, and we thank them for their service since 2016. I am confident Lucy, Calum and Robert will help us continue to drive meaningful change.”