
Bòrd na Gàidhlig appoints new Ceannard
Bòrd na Gàidhlig, today announced the appointment of Shona MacLennan as its new Ceannard (CEO) who will take up post on 6 June 2016.
Ms MacLennan, originally from Spean Bridge, brings to the Bòrd over 20 years experience in the development of business within the Highlands and Islands. She is a Gaelic learner of Edinburgh University and is currently working with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig as Director of Business and Organisational Development. She has been involved in a wide range of Gaelic initiatives and developments, including working for various Gaelic organisations. Ms. MacLennan has extensive governance and strategic planning experience as well as a sound knowledge of community development.
Welcoming the appointment, Bòrd na Gàidhlig Cathraiche (Chair), Allan MacDonald said: “We very much welcome Shona to Bòrd na Gàidhlig and wish her all the best. We are fortunate that she brings with her a wealth of experience in the Public Sector including governance, strategic planning and community development and growth. She has also served as a non-executive director of Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd, Grampian TV and UHI Ltd. The appointment comes just as we have welcomed new Board Members and just as we take the initial steps in preparing the next National Gaelic Language Plan which will take us through the next 5 years so her specific skills will be put to good use.”
Ms. MacLennan added: “I relish the prospect of this new role. This is a very exciting time to be involved in the development of the Gaelic language with the significant growth of Gaelic education, positive economic & social impact and it will be a priority for me to make sure this message is circulated across the nation.
“Bòrd na Gàidhlig has a vital role to play in enhancing and strengthening the Gaelic language in Scotland and I look forward to working with the the Board and its staff in the coming months and years.”
Also welcoming the appointment, Dr. Alasdair Allan, Minister for Scotland’s Languages, said: “I’d like to welcome Shona to her new role as Chief Executive of Bòrd na Gàidhlig. Last year, for the first time, more women than men were appointed to the boards of regulated public bodies, with 54 per cent of all appointees being female. I’m delighted to see the appointment of the first female Chief Executive of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
“The organisation has had a transitional period and she will bring stability and drive to the Bòrd as it enters another busy and demanding period with the development of keys areas of work including the Gaelic education Guidance and delivery of the new National Language Plan for Gaelic. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Bruce Robertson for his work as Interim CEO”