Last updated 21:59, Wednesday, 27 August 2008

SCOTTISH Enterprise has announced that Gareth Baird is to chair its regional advisory board in the south of Scotland region.

Mr Baird is chairman of the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society and is one of the south’s leading businessmen. His appointment will allow Scottish Enterprise to further develop its work with Scotland’s key industries.

Mr Baird is one of the leading figures in the south of Scotland’s agricultural and food and drink sector. He is chairman of Scott Country Potato Growers Ltd, vice-chairman of Grainco Ltd and a director of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. He is also Deputy Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale.

The advisory board will play a key role in Scottish Enterprise’s industry strategy by identifying and shaping potential new projects and programmes in the south region that will help meet the needs of Scotland’s key industries and improve Scotland’s overall economic performance.

The advisory boards will consist mainly of private sector representatives but will also include partner organisations such as local authorities and universities.

David Gass, regional director for Scottish Enterprise, said: “We are committed to engaging with businesses in the south as a core part of how we plan and prioritise our activities and we are delighted to have secured such a high-calibre individual as Gareth to lead our regional advisory board.

“Gareth has extensive business experience and his input will be invaluable as we develop an environment that offers the businesses and key industries the best opportunities to grow.”