Eann is from Thurso and graduated from Glasgow University with a degree in Scottish and English Literature before gaining an MSc in Tourism.
He has held a variety of HIE roles in the area, including head of strengthening communities and programme manager of the Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership (CNSRP).
He was appointed acting area manager in August, following Roy Kirk’s move to head up the new spaceport development.
Confirming the appointment, David Oxley, HIE’s director of business and sector development, said:
“Through his work with the Regeneration Partnership in particular, Eann has repeatedly proved himself as a focused and motivated leader. He has wide experience of Caithness and Sutherland and has built strong relationships with many key partners. I am delighted to confirm his permanent appointment as area manager.”
Eann added: “This is an exciting time for Caithness and Sutherland. The ports at Wick and Scrabster are ideally placed for oil and gas and offshore renewables opportunities. The NC500 is boosting tourism to the benefit of the many businesses and attractions around the route, notably food and drink firms and accommodation providers, as well as vibrant community-led work in Dornoch and the Kyle of Sutherland.
“We are also involved in the growing technology and advanced engineering sector, with companies such as Denchi Power, while the likes of Ashley Ann in Wick is an example of a strong manufacturing business.
“With all of this going on, as well as the prospect of a new spaceport, I am very pleased to be taking on the area manager role, working with colleagues in the area and beyond for the benefit of the region.”
Related Articles
HIREP unveils ten-year strategy for regional growth
There’s a focus on renewable energy and the need to maximise economic and community benefits while driving the transition to net zero.
New tenant welcomed to Inverness Campus
The move will help facilitate the company’s further growth. Its corporate and compliance team of ten will relocate to Aurora House, with the company’s operational base remaining in Beauly.
Next phase of small business units for Wick Business Park
Project will help support economic growth and strengthen population retention in Caithness
HIE published latest business survey results
There were 1,013 responses received from enterprises across the Highlands and Islands region operating in a wide range of sectors.
HIE Board welcomes shadow member
Mary Bowman is learning what it is like to serve on the Board of a public body
Shetland pupils to be offered STEM insights
Science Skills Academy (SSA) has teamed up with Equinor to extend the roll out of pop-up Newton Rooms to Shetland.
New head of business growth keen to support more businesses
Liam Orr is to focus on expanding the agency’s portfolio of business clients.
Area team leader appointed at HIE in Orkney
Highlands and Islands Enterprise has announced a new senior appointment to lead its Orkney based team.