This joint position is dedicated to ensuring that communities directly benefit from the increasing investment in nature restoration and natural capital projects.

This pioneering role will focus on embedding social and economic benefits for local communities into land use change as Scotland accelerates efforts to address climate change and biodiversity loss. Annabel will split her time between the Scottish Land Commission and the Cairngorms National Park Authority, working across both organisations to drive forward good practices and meaningful community engagement in nature restoration projects.

This role will support the Cairngorms 2030 programme. Spanning across 20 long-term projects, Cairngorms 2030 will bring about transformational change in the Cairngorms, benefitting people’s health and wellbeing, delivering on climate change and enhancing nature across the National Park. The programme is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.

Building on the Scottish Land Commission’s recent guidance on Community Benefits from Land, this role will explore new opportunities for land managers and communities to collaborate on nature-based projects, ensuring these initiatives create lasting value. The role will also contribute to the Natural Capital Partnership Project with Community Land Scotland, working alongside a network of advisers to establish national good practices for integrating community benefits into natural capital investment strategies.

Commenting on her appointment, Annabel Davidson Knight said: “Scotland’s growing investment in natural capital presents a huge opportunity for communities, and I’m excited to support work that ensures these benefits are accessible, long-term, and meaningful. I look forward to working with land managers, communities, and partners to develop practical approaches that embed community benefit at the heart of nature restoration projects.”

With a strong background in the third sector, Annabel has led place-based projects, built multi-stakeholder partnerships, and facilitated community-led action. Her previous work in conservation organisations has focused on engaging communities in responding to the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss in ways which bring equitable and inclusive rural development.  

The Scottish Land Commission continues to focus on fair and sustainable land ownership and use, ensuring that land reform and investment deliver positive outcomes for communities across Scotland. Annabel’s expertise will play a key role in making sure that as Scotland leads in nature restoration, local communities see real lasting benefits.

For more on the Scottish Land Commission’s guidance on Community Benefits from Land, visit here.