VisitScotland seeks new CEO

What does VisitScotland do? 

The Scottish tourism and events sector is one of Scotland’s most important industries.

Our aim is to benefit the whole of Scotland by growing the value of the visitor economy. Through our marketing, events, destination development and business support and advice, we help to create better places for people to live, work and visit. 

We work closely with multiple stakeholders ranging from: 

• tourism businesses 

• destination marketing organisations 

• public agencies 

• commercial partners

Partnership and collaboration is at the heart of what we do.

We work hand in hand with partners to achieve the ambitions of the national strategy, Outlook 2030, for Scotland to be a leader in 21st century tourism. 

Responsible tourism is threaded through all the work that we do and we're are committed to creating a sustainable tourism destination to allow communities to flourish by creating jobs and improving well-being. 

We aim to ensure Scotland is put firmly at the top of everyone’s list of places to visit. 

What we’re looking for in a candidate?

We’re seeking an innovative and ambitious CEO to lead VisitScotland and our contribution to the future economic development of Scotland. 

The ideal candidate will ensure that VisitScotland is instrumental in meeting the Scottish Government’s ambition for tourism and events, in line with the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET) and national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030. 

We’re looking for someone who shares the values of VisitScotland and our commitment for responsible tourism, ensuring that our work helps to build a destination and visitor experience that allows tourism and events to flourish. 

As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide vision, leadership, and strategic direction to stakeholders in the Scottish tourism and events industry, as well as the wider community. 

You will be an ambassador for VisitScotland, developing our international strategy and championing Scotland, at home and abroad, as a world leader in 21st century tourism. 

The role is accountable to the Board of VisitScotland and, as Accountable Officer, to the Scottish Government. You will ensure effective governance and inspire our Leadership Group to work together to deliver the organisation’s purpose, vision, and mission. 

Hear from our current CEO – Malcolm Roughead

"It has been a huge honour to lead an organisation which contributes so much to the economic, social and environmental growth and wellbeing of Scotland, and the nation’s international reputation. 

The commitment, passion and skills of the staff are second to none, making this the most enjoyable role of my career."