James Craigie has retired from the role of chairman at independent living provider Abbeyfield Scotland after a decade of dedicated service on the Board.

James (Jim) has been chairman of the not for profit organisation for the past seven years and served on the Board for three years previously.

He has steered Abbeyfield Scotland through many changes as it adapts to the needs and expectations of older people who need support and care. His dedication to the organisation including his excellent relationship with staff saw Jim lead the Board during a restructuring of the organisation and the creation of a new subsidiary, Crandeen, which is an innovative business providing support services to people in their own homes.

Jim will continue to serve on the Board of Crandeen.

Following the organisation’s AGM held on September 19, the Board appointed Helen Barclay as its new chair. An existing Abbeyfield Board member, Helen has a long history in senior leadership roles in the housing sector.

She has over 20 years’ experience in housing management and is a SACRO qualified mediator and Chartered Institute of Housing mentor. She has worked with Forth, Grampian, Ark and Fife housing associations and was director of housing services with Viewpoint Housing Association.

Ken Robertson has been appointed vice chair with the current vice chair, Nance Smith, stepping back from this role and retaining her position as company secretary. Ken is the former corporate relations director at Diageo and brings strong strategic leadership skills to the Board, as well as experience in governance and stakeholder engagement.

Retiring Abbeyfield Scotland chair, Jim Craigie, said: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to serve Abbeyfield Scotland as a Board Director for ten years with the last seven years as chairman. We have seen many positive changes during these years and my thanks go to everyone who assisted and supported the business in achieving our goals. I am pleased to confirm that the business will continue to go forward with a very strong and professional team at the helm. I wish everyone associated with Abbeyfield Scotland every success in the future.”

New Abbeyfield Scotland chair, Helen Barclay, said: “On behalf of all the team at Abbeyfield Scotland, I want to sincerely thank Jim for his steadfast chairmanship over the years. Building on Jim’s legacy the Board can continue to provide and develop further the highest quality services possible for our current and future residents and their families. I am proud to be appointed as the new chair and I look forward to working with the skilled Board as we take the organisation forward.”