Jim McDonald has been appointed as the new chair of Scottish Enterprise.
McDonald announced in October he will retire as Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde in August 2025, after 16 years in the post.
The appointment is for three years from January 2025 to December 2027. The chair receives £50,225 per annum for a time commitment of 91 days per year.
Scottish Enterprise CEO Adrian Gillespie said: “We’re delighted to welcome Professor Sir Jim McDonald as the new Chair of Scottish Enterprise and look forward to working with him.
“Sir Jim has repositioned the University of Strathclyde as a leading international technological university, delivered a £1 billion campus development and worked closely with Scottish Enterprise in establishing the Glasgow City Innovation District and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland.
“He knows us well having previously served on our Board and brings a significant passion for economic development and expertise in innovation and the energy transition.
“His global reputation, connections across the private and public sectors, and impressive leadership track record will be enormous assets to Scottish Enterprise.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Professor McDonald is an internationally recognised figure with a track record of driving innovation and change.
“His experience and expertise will no doubt be an asset to Scottish Enterprise, which attracts investment and backs ambitious companies and projects throughout Scotland.
“I look forward to working with Sir Jim to grow Scotland’s economy, secure the economic benefits of the transition to net zero and support new businesses that capitalise on the research and ingenuity of our universities.”
McDonald said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of Scottish Enterprise. Scotland is rich in talent, innovation, and opportunity, and I am committed to working with the organisation and its partners to drive economic growth, create opportunities, and champion sustainable development in achieving a net zero economy.
“With emerging technologies and a changing global economy, there has never been a more important time to support Scottish businesses and attract inward investment. Having been involved with Scottish Enterprise previously as a Board member, I understand the vital role it plays in supporting Scotland’s economy. Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my career, and I look forward to bringing that same ethos to this new role.”