Carmen McPherson has joined as membership communications manager at its Musselburgh headquarters whilst George Moore has been appointed as the South West Regional Support Officer.

Prior to joining SLE, Ms McPherson spent a decade working freelance in communications with a wide-ranging client portfolio. Previously she has assisted small scale start up initiatives, family run enterprises, and multinational entities - with extensive experience in brand management and ambassador relations. Before following a career in public relations, she was a lawyer specialising in private client representation and mental health law. Originally from Yorkshire, Ms McPherson now lives with her family in Edinburgh.

George Moore, meanwhile, joins SLE with a wealth of experience in both finance and land management. Hailing originally for Northern Ireland but living in Dumfries & Galloway for more than a decade, he worked in banking for more than 25 years and ran a farming enterprise in Enniskillen. Since 2016, he held a high-level role with Royal Scottish Forestry Society. Mr Moore holds an Honours degree in economics, a Diploma in accounting and, more recently, a forestry degree.

The two will be important links between the membership, SLE’s policy team and other stakeholder organisations, identifying key priorities as well as taking a prominent role in engagement and events.

Carmen McPherson said: “It is hugely important that the impact of rural businesses in Scotland is communicated and championed and I’m pleased to be able to help fulfil that task in the coming months and years. I’m experienced in working with organisations across a range of different sectors and interests and I know how diverse the SLE membership is - I hope I will be able to utilise my experience to the benefit of these businesses.”

George Moore said: “Through previous roles, I’m very familiar with many of the SLE members in south west and the chance to work directly for the organisation was an appealing opportunity. Land-based businesses are vital in generating rural employment and economic activity, food production, addressing the climate crisis as well as helping nature and biodiversity. It is a pleasure to be able to help these rural enterprises continue to build their significant contribution.”

Sarah-Jane Laing, chief executive of Scottish Land & Estates, commented: “Carmen and George are excellent additions to our staff team and I’m delighted to welcome them to Scottish Land & Estates. Between the drive to net zero, agricultural reform and a multitude of other issues to address for rural businesses and communities, the next few years are set to be a very busy period and Carmen and George will play an important role in ensuring our members’ interests are well represented at this time.”