Stuart has more than 20 years experience as an economic development professional in the Highlands, initially with HIE and more recently as executive chief officer for transformation and economy with The Highland Council.
He has played a key role in a wide range of developments across the Highlands and Islands, working closely with public and private sector stakeholders and recently led the £315 million Inverness and Highland City-Region deal.
Originally from Inverness, Stuart studied geography at the University of Edinburgh, followed by doctorate in town and regional planning at the University of Glasgow. He started his career as a lecturer in land economy at the University of Aberdeen.
Commenting on his new role, he said:
“I am delighted to be taking up this role, leading the Moray team, particularly at a time where there are significant opportunities, including those arising from the Moray Growth Deal and significant investment in the area by the Ministry of Defence and Boeing.
“The area has many global brands helping drive the economy, from whisky, food and drink, textiles and engineering, there are significant opportunities for growth and innovation in all these sectors.
“There are also challenges of course, including uncertainties over Brexit and attracting new talent to the area to ensure that businesses will have access to the skills they need for the future.
“I look forward to working with the team and our partners, particularly Moray Council. Collaboration is the most effective means of strengthening the economy and community resilience of the Moray area.”
A charity set up to support social enterprises across Moray has secured up to £63,360 from HIE.
An engineering and construction firm is expanding its premises in a £2.5m investment over the next three years which will allow it to more than double its production capabilities and create jobs.
A new website which makes it easier for businesses to get information and support is one of the measures in a refreshed Economic Action Plan for Scotland.
Eleven young people from the Highlands have become the first to complete a year-long business support programme designed to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Martin Johnson, HIE’s interim director of strategy and regional economy, looks at the importance of islands in the country’s economy.
Staff at Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in Stornoway will join Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (the Comhairle) at its HQ on Sandwick Road next week.
Fourteen delegates from organisations across Europe that are tackling socio-economic challenges will visit the Highlands this week.
A public exhibition will be held later this month to review progress on a masterplan for the area’s future.
Martin Johnson, HIE's regional head of international and key sectors, explores the ups and downs for businesses of leaving the EU.
The vast majority of businesses in the Highlands and Islands are using fair work practices to help attract and retain staff.
The Board of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) was in Caithness 2-4 September.
