New Era for Land Reform: Scottish Land Commission Welcomes Fresh Leadership
The Scottish Land Commission is ushering in a new chapter with the appointment of Dr Lucy Beattie, Dr Calum MacLeod, and Robert Black as its latest Commissioners.
Bringing a wealth of expertise in community engagement, sustainable development, and tenant farming, these new leaders are poised to drive forward Scotland’s land reform agenda. Dr Beattie and Dr MacLeod join as Land Commissioners, while Robert Black takes up the mantle of Tenant Farming Commissioner, succeeding Dr Bob McIntosh.
Outgoing Commissioners Dr Sally Reynolds, Lorne MacLeod, and Dr Bob McIntosh leave behind an important legacy in advancing Scotland’s land reform agenda. Chief Executive Hamish Trench praised their contributions, saying:
“We are immensely grateful to Sally, Lorne, and Bob for their dedication and leadership in delivering a fair and inclusive approach to land reform. Their work over eight years has done much to improve opportunities for communities, businesses, and individuals to benefit from Scotland’s land
“With Lucy, Calum, and Robert, we gain exceptional expertise and experience to build on this vital work.”
Chair of the board, Michael Russell, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of the Commissioners’ roles in delivering impactful change:
“The Board’s role is to ensure land reform delivers real and lasting benefits. Sally, Lorne, and Bob have made an outstanding contribution, and we thank them for their service since 2016. I am confident Lucy, Calum, and Robert will help us continue to drive meaningful change.”
On joining the Commission and the challenges ahead, Dr Lucy Beattie, who has extensive experience in community engagement, sustainability, and crofting, commented:
“With over two decades of working directly with rural communities, I’ve seen how effective land management can unlock opportunities and I’m excited to contribute my knowledge and experience to the Commission’s work.”
Dr Calum MacLeod, a seasoned policy advocate and sustainable development expert, added,
“How Scotland’s land is owned, governed and used is central to the sustainability of our rural and urban communities. I look forward to bringing my expertise to the Commission to help shape policy advice and practice that supports these communities in fair and equitable ways and tackles the existential threats posed by the climate and nature emergencies.”
Robert Black, now Tenant Farming Commissioner, emphasised his focus on building constructive relationships between tenants and landlords,
“I am honoured to continue the excellent work of Bob McIntosh in strengthening fairness, transparency, and collaboration in tenant farming. These relationships are vital for a resilient agricultural sector, and I’m committed to supporting all stakeholders in addressing challenges and promoting good practice.”
The Scottish Land Commission looks forward to the significant contributions of its new Commissioners as it continues its work to make Scotland’s land work for everyone.
Appointments
The appointments are for five years from 19 December 2024 to 18 December 2029.
The appointments are regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
Remuneration
The appointments attract remuneration of £231.38 per day. The Land Commissioner time commitment is two days per month. The Tenant Farming Commissioner commitment is eight days per month.
Other ministerial appointments
Dr Beattie, Dr MacLeod and Mr Black do not hold any other public appointments.
Dr MacLeod has served on the Board of MG Alba since May 2022.
Political activity
All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.
In February 2022, Dr Beattie submitted her name for vetting as a candidate with the Scottish National Party and in October 2022 was selected as Convener for the Scottish National Party constituency association of Caithness, Sutherland and Ross; and second officer of the Wester-Ross branch. In November 2023, Dr Beattie was selected as a candidate for the Scottish National Party for the general election representing Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross. Dr Beattie stood down from roles and membership of the Scottish National Party in October 2024.
Dr MacLeod and Mr Black have had no political activity within the last five years.
