QMS board members appointed

Two new members have been appointed to the board of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead announced today.

The new appointees are Louise Welsh and Ronnie Eunson.

Mr Lochhead said:

“I am delighted to appoint Louise and Ronnie to the Board of QMS as they will bring a fresh perspective and insight to the important work that the Board and staff of QMS undertake on behalf of the red meat supply chain in Scotland.  I also would like to thank John Gregor and Henry Graham for their sterling service since QMS attained NDPB status in 2008.”

Jim McLaren, Chairman of Quality Meat Scotland, said:

“I’m very encouraged that so many skilled  and knowledgeable people applied for the positions and I welcome the Cabinet Secretary’s selection of two individuals who are highly regarded in the industry.  We look forward to welcoming Ronnie and Louise on board and I am confident they will bring a valuable combination of skills, fresh ideas and experience to the board.

“Today’s announcement also marks the first female board member appointment in the history of our organisation which is extremely welcome.  Our thanks also go to the two board members standing down this year, Henry Graham and John Gregor.  The commitment and enthusiasm they have shown during their terms on the board has been greatly appreciated.”

Louise Welsh

After a lengthy career in journalism, including 10 years at BBC Scotland, Louise was Head of Communications at QMS and helped establish its work in health and education.  She is currently Agriculture Manager for Morrison’s, the UK’s fourth largest supermarket chain and has over 10 years’ experience of working in the food industry.

Ronnie Eunson

Ronnie is a sheep and beef farmer in Shetland and specialises in supplying mainland business with organic products.  He is also Chair of Shetland Livestock Marketing Group which operates the auctions mart and abattoir.

These appointments will be for four years and will run from April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2017.

These appointments are part-time and attract a remuneration of £157.33 per day for a time commitment of 10 to 15 days per year.

The appointments are regulated by the Public Appointments Commissioner for Scotland.

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.  The two appointees have confirmed that they are not involved in any political activity.