Lisa Tennant has been appointed new chair of Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

Ms Tennant took up her role on 1 January 2024 and the appointment lasts until 31 December 2027. Her background is in regulation at the Scottish Solicitors’ Discipline Tribunal, Consumer Council for Water and Energy and Communications Ombudsman. She said that she is committed to fostering a cleaner, greener Scotland for all.

SEPA Chief Executive, Nicole Paterson said: “With Scotland’s environmental, economic and social prosperity so prominently in focus, it’s an exciting time for Scotland’s environment agency, our people and partners. We’re delighted to welcome Lisa Tennant as our new Chair.  Her considerable experience will be invaluable as we continue our reset and reform, finalise our emerging corporate plan, and accelerate the delivery of our key services.

“Lisa will build on the significant contribution made by Bob Downes, who we thank for his significant contribution to both SEPA and Scotland’s environment across seventeen years on the agency board. We wish Bob well for his next steps.”

Lisa Tennant, SEPA Chair, said: “As Scotland’s environment watchdog, SEPA are on the frontline of the climate emergency and provide nationally important public services. Their progressive statutory purpose on environment, economy and society not only aligns with my own values, but also with my experience across public, private and charitable sectors. 

“Supporting the fresh leadership of Chief Executive, Nicole Paterson, and working towards a new corporate plan, I look forward to driving the agency’s focus and supporting delivery. When SEPA succeed, Scotland succeeds and I’m conscious we do this through our brilliant people and partners. I’m therefore very much looking forward to meeting both our teams and our external partners across Scotland in the time ahead.”

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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
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