Dr Mike Cantlay appointed chair of Scottish Natural Heritage

Image credit - PA

The Scottish Government has appointed Dr Mike Cantlay as the new chair of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Roseanna Cunningham, the Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, said Cantlay would “bring a wealth of experience to the organisation”, which is tasked with advising the Scottish Government on the conservation of Scotland’s natural landscape.

The chair of VisitScotland from 2010 until 2016, Cantlay is currently the chair of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd.

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Cunningham said: “I am delighted to confirm Dr Mike Cantlay’s appointment to lead the work of SNH. SNH plays an important and varied role researching and combating climate change, tackling wildlife crime, restoring our peatlands and encouraging people to get out and enjoy nature.

“Given Dr Cantlay’s previous public sector roles he will bring a wealth of experience to the organisation on how best to promote Scotland’s natural heritage and help equip SNH in responding to current and emerging challenges.  I very much look forward to working with him.”

The appointment, expected to run for three years from 15 May 2017 until 14 May 2020, comes with a daily fee of £335.00 for a time commitment of 10 days per month.

Cantlay was awarded Public Sector Leader of the Year at the Scottish Leadership Awards 2012 and was made an OBE in 2014 for services to tourism.