HIE appoints new business chief

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has named David Oxley as its new director of business and sector development.

David Oxley joined the organisation in 2004 as head of operations in Lochaber, having worked as an accountant for the private sector prior to joining HIE.

For the past year Oxley has been acting director, filling in for Charlotte Wright before she was appointed chief executive of HIE.

Commenting on his appointment, Oxley said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the past year as acting director and delighted to take up the role on a permanent basis. Going forward my attention remains firmly on supporting businesses and sectors to grow through innovation and internationalization, and ensuring that this growth is spread across the region.”

Wright added: “I am delighted to welcome David as a permanent member of our leadership team. His experience, both with HIE and prior to joining the organisation, will continue to be a great asset to us as we face the challenges ahead.”

HIE is Scottish government’s economic and community development agency for the north and west of Scotland.

The agency has a budget of £65.9 million in 2017-18, including £55.7 million from the Scottish government, to invest in developing businesses, economic sectors and communities across an area which covers half of Scotland, including all inhabited islands.