Based in An Lòchran, Inverness, David Howie is responsible for a dynamic portfolio that includes all HIE activities on innovation, technology and advanced engineering. This includes the agency’s developments around the Northern Innovation Hub; an HIE-led project funded by the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.
Mr Howie joins HIE after five years with the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS), where he has led a team delivering around 60 projects a year across the north of Scotland.
He trained as a scientist, gaining a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Stirling and a graduateship of the Royal Society of Chemistry from Napier University, Edinburgh.
Mr Howie began his career in the paper industry, working in product development with Tullis Russell in Fife before moving into management. In 2003, he joined Inverness Medical (which became LifeScan Scotland), initially leading the engineering team before focusing on technology transfer and new product introduction.
Announcing his appointment to HIE, director of business and sector development David Oxley, said:
“David’s blend of skills, experience and passion for the job will be invaluable in establishing a whole new approach to innovation and technology. His role will be vital in delivering our priorities for growing businesses in the coming years and I am greatly looking forward to working with him.”
Taking up the role, David Howie added:
“This is a great time to be joining HIE. There’s a huge amount of innovation work already achieved in recent years, and a strong pipeline of emerging projects. I very much look forward to working with the team, our clients and partners to build on this in the years ahead. I am particularly excited about the opportunities for the region, including those linked to digitisation and Industry 4.0.”
Related Articles
New support programme launched for food and drink sector
Food and Drink TechHUB will provide financial and advice support to help businesses, including social and community enterprises, with commercial growth and net zero transition activities.
New fund announced to support growth in life sciences sector
The funding can help cover the costs of equipment, new technology or fixtures and fittings, or to construct, adapt or upgrade business premises or other infrastructure.
Cairngorm Mountain chief executive to retire
CMSL board member Tim Hurst will become interim chief executive
50 plus jobs supported by HIE in Caithness and Sutherland in 2023/24
As a result of HIE’s support, businesses in the area are set to see combined turnover rise by £22.4m, while international sales will grow by £661,000.
650+ jobs supported by HIE in Inner Moray Firth in 2023/24
There was support for businesses and social enterprises to lower emissions and improve efficiencies within their operations.
Argyll's new £8.1m building will strengthen marine industries
The project is expected to continue to attract innovative marine businesses, creating new well-paid job opportunities, particularly for young people, and encouraging entrepreneurship.
£1.3m investment approved by HIE in the Outer Hebrides 2023/24
As a result of HIE support, businesses in the area will see total turnover rise by £14.5m and international sales by £1.9m.
New director of area operations
Joanna Peteranna took up the role on 1 July.
New report highlights economic opportunities in reducing emissions
A new report published today (Tuesday 16 July) outlines significant economic opportunities associated with reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the Highlands and Islands.