Scottish Financial Enterprise (SFE) said it has appointed two new non-executive board members — Mike Tumilty of abrdn and Louisa Knox of Shepherd and Wedderburn — amid plans to strengthen its strategic ambitions.

SFE said the new members “will provide expertise on strategic themes of net zero and developing the strength of Scotland’s international network and bring over 50 years of experience in legal services, regulation, operations and technology.”

SFE is the industry body for financial and professional services in Scotland.

Tumilty is chief operating officer at abrdn, a post he has held since March 2019.

SFE said he will act as board sponsor “for developing Scotland’s international network and industry narrative, two strategic areas of focus for SFE as it seeks to promote Scotland’s reputation as a longstanding and dynamic global financial centre.”

Knox is a Partner at Shepherd and Wedderburn where she specialises in pensions law.

Her role on SFE’s board will include being sponsor for leading the move to net zero.

SFE Chairman Philip Grant said: “Mike and Louisa have depth and breadth of experience in Scotland’s financial and professional services sector and we’re delighted to have them on the board.

“Our new strategy reflects a refreshed set of priorities as we adapt to the post-pandemic landscape and these new appointments bring knowledge and capability to help us act on these priorities to the benefit of the sector and of society.”

Tumilty said: “It’s an encouraging time for the Scottish financial and professional services sector as we look outward at building new relationships and attracting new investment.

“I’m looking forward to working with SFE’s broad membership to make sure we are achieving these shared ambitions.”

Knox said: “The financial services sector must play a lead role in tackling the climate emergency and there has been a real momentum from the industry in recent months to do this, which is reflected in SFE’s new strategy.

“I’m excited to be playing a key role in the implementation of this vital strategic priority.”