THE newly-appointed chief executive of the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) has said tackling climate change and embracing digital technology are key to boosting Scotland’s productivity and economy.
Sara Thiam, who is currently Scotland director of the Institution of Civil Engineers, added focusing on people having the correct skills will also be crucial in ensuring Scotland’s economic future.
Thiam said: “In common with other countries around the world Scotland faces unprecedented environmental, demographic, mobility, educational and technological challenges.
“Ensuring our people have the right skills and knowledge, embracing digital technology and tackling climate change hold the key to driving a much-needed surge in productivity and sustainable economic prosperity.
“With change comes opportunity and I’m passionate about Scotland’s ability to innovate. Directing our talent for innovation to delivering improved economic, social and environmental outcomes will help us compete internationally.
“With continued uncertainty around Brexit affecting inward investment and business confidence, I believe the need for the SCDI and its members to drive forward a new agenda which delivers economic prosperity and supports all our people, businesses and communities to thrive is greater than ever.”
As manager of the Glasgow Edinburgh Collaboration Initiative, a partnership of both cities and Scottish Enterprise, Thiam championed projects for economic prosperity and helped make the case for extending the high-speed rail line to Scotland as chair of Transport Scotland’s High Speed Rail Promotion group.
The experienced director, who is a member of the Scottish Government’s newly-formed Infrastructure Commission, will take up her new role in June.
She continued: “SCDI has a unique and diverse range of members across private, public and the third sector spanning the length and breadth of Scotland. It is to that membership where I will look for inspiration and fresh ideas on building a more competitive and inclusive economy.”
Thiam’s appointment was welcomed by SCDI chair Ian Wall who said: “Sara stands out as a natural communicator with a passion to increase and share knowledge on things that matter to the people of Scotland. Her track record spans the public, private and third sectors at local, national and EU level and demonstrates an ability to bring people and ideas together. These skills will help SCDI and its members to continue to lead the debate on, and contribute to, Scotland’s economy and society for the benefit of all.”
The SCDI is a not-for-profit, independent membership network which seeks to engage civic Scotland and influence Government and key stakeholders to ensure sustainable, inclusive economic growth and flourishing communities.
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