New board appointments at Edinburgh Leisure

The charity Edinburgh Leisure, which runs over 50 sports and leisure facilities and a myriad of projects to support the citizens of Edinburgh to enjoy active and healthy lives, has made some new board appointments, effective from January 2021.

Scott Haldane has been appointed as Edinburgh Leisure’s new Chairperson, taking over from David Milne, who is stepping down after two terms (six years). Jackie Moran has been appointed as Vice Chair.

Scott Haldane has served on the Edinburgh Leisure Board for eight years and previously held the position of Vice Chair, and also chair of the Strategy and Financial Planning Committee. Jackie Moran has been on the Board for six years, chairing the Audit and Risk Committee.

David Milne, who relinquished his position as Chair earlier this month said:  “As someone with a passion for sport and the benefits it can bring to so many people, I have been honoured to have held the position of Chair of Edinburgh Leisure for the last six years.

“I have enjoyed meeting many members of staff over the years, visiting the venues, and seeing the positive impact that Edinburgh Leisure has had on the health of so many people of all ages and stages.

“Covid-19 has changed all our lives but I have been proud of the way that the organisation, and more importantly its key asset – its staff – has weathered the storm, pulling together despite the uncertainties and the ever-changing environment, to re-open venues and services, creating opportunities for everyone to lead more active, and healthy lives.”

Commenting on his appointment, Scott Haldane (above) said: “Having been a member of the Edinburgh Leisure Board for the last eight years, I feel privileged to be asked to extend my contribution in the capacity as Chair.

“My goal will be to build on the excellent work of my predecessors to further enhance Edinburgh Leisure’s role in supporting and promoting the health and wellbeing of the people of Edinburgh.”

On her appointment, Jackie Moran said: “I’m delighted to be appointed as Vice Chair of Edinburgh Leisure. I look forward to working with the board and the leadership team in my new role.

June Peebles, CEO Edinburgh Leisure, said:  “A key element of Edinburgh Leisure’s governance is having a non-executive Board of Directors, who have the collective responsibility of directing Edinburgh Leisure, ensuring we operate in accordance with our Memorandum and Articles of Association and meet all our legal responsibilities. 

“The Board give their time and expertise on a voluntary basis to support the Strategic Leadership Team in leading the organisation.

“We’re fortunate to have a strong Board of Directors, who come from a variety of industries, business and specialisms and who willingly give of their time and expertise, scrutinising our work to ensure we deliver on our vision and objectives.

“I’d like to extend a huge thank you to David for his professionalism, advice and enthusiasm over the years and in particular, the support and commitment he has given to me and Edinburgh Leisure, in what has been the most challenging year for everyone.”