Sean McGrath

Mr McGrath, who is currently the Foundation’s finance director, will take up the new role in July.

Mr McGrath joined the foundation in May 2019. Prior to this, he worked with leading brands including Red Bull, NorthgateArinso and Monster.com. After retraining as an accountant in 2011, he held a number of financial management roles within organisations such as Deloitte and London & Scottish Investments.

The Foundation’s current CEO, Sandy Kennedy, will remain with the organisation until the end of September to allow for a three-month transition period.

Colin Robertson CBE, chair of the foundation, said: “Sean’s appointment is tremendous news for the Foundation and for Scotland at a time when we need our entrepreneurial leaders more than ever.

“His experience as Finance Director at the Foundation, particularly during this past most challenging of years, will ensure that we have a Chief Executive who has both detailed understanding of the organisation and the passion, energy and ambition for taking it forward.

“The Board has been greatly impressed by the Foundation’s senior team and all that they have achieved, so we’re delighted to have made this key appointment from a strong cohort of internal candidates. We’re all looking forward to working together on this next chapter in the Foundation’s story as we continue to influence Scotland’s entrepreneurial ambitions.”

Sean McGrath added: “I am proud to be taking on the CEO role at a time when every organisation, no matter its size, is addressing enormous challenges as we transform our economy and society to address the climate emergency and Industry 4.0.

“We do this with the support of senior entrepreneurs, the entrepreneurial community, government, partners a wide range of organisations and individuals who share our commitment to build a more entrepreneurial economy and society. Our recent highly successful crowdfunding campaign is evidence of this, and I am looking forward to working closely with everyone at the Foundation, in Scotland and beyond, in my new role.

“The Foundation has a fantastic team, and I am privileged to be following in Sandy Kennedy’s footsteps in leading the organisation at this next critical and very exciting stage. We have lots of plans and I relish the opportunity to share them over the coming months.”