Michael Matheson MSP joins Highland CIC Board
Former Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, Michael Matheson MSP, has joined the board of Highland CIC, strengthening the organisation’s leadership at a pivotal moment as Highland CIC prepares to launch its regional manifesto next week.
An Ambassador for Highland CIC since 2025 and a key figure in the development of the Highland Renewables Network, Mr Matheson brings significant experience in government, energy policy and the Net Zero transition. He joins Chair, Yvonne Crook and Vice Chair, Jan Tucker, alongside a dedicated volunteer board representing the tourism, community development, social enterprise, renewable energy and finance sectors.
His appointment comes as Highland CIC accelerates its work to ensure that the benefits of major investment flowing into the Highlands – particularly in renewable energy, tourism and infrastructure – are more fairly shared with the communities at the heart of that growth.
The organisation now brings together 45 Highland businesses committed to a shared vision for sustainable development, including plans for a regional Sustainable Development Fund to drive long-term economic, social and environmental outcomes.
This work responds to pressing challenges across the region, where more than 9,000 young people live in poverty, one in three households faces fuel poverty, large areas of peatland remain degraded and carbon-emitting, and an increasingly unsustainable tourism model is placing strain on communities, while climate challenges are becoming a growing concern for local environments and resilience.
Recognising both the challenges and opportunities, Mr Matheson, a long-standing advocate for the Highlands, has described the region as having a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to lead in sustainable energy and economic development.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Matheson said: “I’m delighted to join the board of Highland CIC. I’ve seen first-hand the strength of collaboration the organisation has built through the Highland Renewables Network, bringing businesses together to support communities and drive sustainable development.
“With deep roots in the Highlands, I care strongly about ensuring that the opportunities created by the region’s growth are shared fairly and deliver lasting benefits. With the right collaboration between communities, businesses and government, the Highlands can lead the way in building a more inclusive and sustainable economy.”
Yvonne Crook, Chair of Highland CIC, said: “Michael’s appointment comes at a critical moment for the Highlands. Following extensive community consultation and collaboration with Highland Renewables, we’re preparing to set out our vision for how growth can be better aligned, ensuring the value created here delivers real outcomes for the people who live and work in the Highlands.
“We are building a coalition of partners ready to lead and deliver change. Michael’s insight will help strengthen that work as we move into the next phase.”