Beauly-based rural surveyor Rob Whitson appointed new Highland vice-chairman for Scottish Land & Estates
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A leading Beauly-based land management consultant has been appointed as the new vice chairman of the Highland regional committee of rural business organisation, Scottish Land & Estates.
Rob Whitson, a partner at Bell Ingram, is one of three new appointments to SLE’s regional network, with Mairi MacLeod Coleman becoming chairwoman of the Highland region and in SLE’s Central region, Antony Gifford, who manages his family estate, Kinnordy, has been selected as the new regional committee chairman.
Having enjoyed a successful military career, Mr Whitson completed his service as a major in the Royal Dragoon Guards in 2006 before qualifying as a commercial surveyor. He has been working in rural practice surveying since 2010 and now leads property consultancy Bell Ingram’s business in the north.
He said: “I’m acutely aware of the diverse political and environmental issues to contend with for those who manage land in the Highland region. Land-based businesses are crucial in delivering for our economy and communities and I’m looking forward to providing help and advice to these enterprises and supporting Mairi in her new role as chair.”
Mairi MacLeod Coleman takes up the post with 15 years’ experience in the banking industry, working in international strategy and human resources. She recently joined her family’s business, MacLeod Construction and Achnaba Estate and is based full time in Lochgilphead, Argyll.
She said: “I’m really passionate about helping to address important issues in our rural areas such as housing and skills and training opportunities. There are unique challenges for rural Scotland and Scottish Land & Estates members are already playing their part in helping to positively address those. I’m looking forward to working with businesses in the Highland region to build our contribution even further.”
Mark Tennant, chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, said the new appointees would play a crucial role in ensuring the views of SLE members are well represented.
"All three will bring energy and expertise to their positions,” he added.
