Ruth Kirkpatrick to head up HIE’s Orkney operations
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has announced a key leadership change for its Orkney team.
Ruth Kirkpatrick, a native Orcadian with extensive experience within the organisation, will step up as the new area team leader on 3 January.
Promoted from her previous role as head of business growth, Kirkpatrick has been with HIE since 1992, contributing significantly to projects promoting Orkney’s economic and social development. Her new position will see her maintain a strong focus on the islands’ unique strengths and opportunities.
The Orkney and Shetland area team will be led by Shetland-based area manager Katrina Wiseman.
Former area manager for Orkney, Graeme Harrison has moved to a new marine energy role in HIE where he will oversee the organisation’s input to major energy projects, including the European Marine Energy Centre and Orkney Research and Innovation Campus.
Chief Executive of HIE, Stuart Black said: “Ruth, Katrina and Graeme have proved themselves to be motivated leaders with wide experience of Orkney and Shetland, having built up strong relationships with many key partners.
“These changes will position us to better align our resources with strategic priorities and maximise the benefits of new opportunities in offshore wind, green hydrogen, and wave and tidal energy. I am delighted to confirm these appointments.”
Ms Kirkpatrick said: “I’m excited to be taking up the new role. Living and working in such vibrant islands with so many natural benefits to drive our economy, is a privilege. It is home to some of the world’s leading food and drink brands and plays such a crucial role in the energy sector.
“Tourism and creative industries are delivering high quality products and there are significant opportunities for growth and innovation in all these sectors. Our community groups and social enterprises are busy taking forward many significant developments that will add to our quality of life. I look forward to continuing to work with the team and our partners, including Orkney Islands Council, to help strengthen the economy and community resilience of Orkney.”