South of Scotland Enterprise launches recruitment drive for permanent CEO
The new Enterprise Agency for the South of Scotland has today launched its recruitment drive for its permanent Chief Executive.
South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) which was established on 1 April 2020 as the new Economic Development Agency for Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders, is committed to working with the people of the South of Scotland to establish the region as a centre of opportunity, innovation and growth.
SOSE has set out its clear commitment to being bold and ambitious in its new Operating Plan just published last week and has made it clear that it is here for the long term - to inspire the region to think bigger to unlock the great potential to make things happen in the South of Scotland.
Since 3 February 2020, Nick Halfhide previously Director of Sustainable Growth at Scottish Natural Heritage has led the SOSE team as Interim CEO and remains in post until the permanent appointment is made.
Since then, SOSE has delivered a range of activities including administering over £12m of Scottish Government funding to almost 300 businesses across the South; announcing a £2.7m investment in the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) to help boost tourism in the area, and helped bring 100 new jobs to Selkirk through closely working with Energy provider People’s Energy.
SOSE continues to work with businesses and communities across the South to access support, advice and funding and is encouraging anyone to get in touch to access support.
Professor Russel Griggs OBE, Chair of SOSE explains: “We have embarked upon an incredible, and very exciting journey and we truly believe the time is now for the South of Scotland. We fully intend to take this opportunity with both hands and collectively make sure our region’s future is brighter than it ever has been.
“The new Chief Executive of SOSE will be someone who can take on this key leadership role as we continue to progress and deliver on our ambitions for the South of Scotland.
“They will demonstrate their commitment to our beautiful region, lead our people to think differently and be truly transformational for the benefit of our economy and communities. They will be a great ambassador for SOSE and the South of Scotland, building positive relationships, and continuing to lead us on the incredible journey that we’re on.
“We have been steadily building our team at SOSE, currently with a workforce of 59 and growing. We have an exceptional Board who have a broad range of knowledge and experience and together we are here to do great things WITH our people of the South to deliver lasting change in the South of Scotland.
“We will do so with a new CEO who will carry on developing the culture, capability, and capacity at SOSE to deliver our vision and mission for the good of the South of Scotland.”
- Applications now closed.