Creative Scotland is delighted to announce three key appointments, completing our senior management team and increasing our capacity in the creative industries and in theatre and talent development.

Kenneth Fowler has joined the organisation as Director of Communications and External Relations. For the past four years, Kenneth has been Head of Communications at Scottish Natural Heritage, leading on branding, campaigns, publishing, PR, internal communications and SNH’s engagement with the media and Government. Prior to this, Kenneth spent seven years in the creative industries as a Director of Edinburgh-based communications agency, 1576, and he has also worked in strategy and communications with Glenmorangie and Standard Life. As well as a role as Board member of Eden Court Theatre in Inverness, Kenneth has lectured on communications at universities and schools in Edinburgh and the Highlands. Kenneth takes on the lead role for all aspects of Creative Scotland communications and external engagement and his appointment completes Creative Scotland’s Senior Management Team.

Helena Ward is Creative Scotland’s new Portfolio Manager for Creative Industries and Skills, bringing her direct experience of creative industries development.  Before joining Creative Scotland, Helena ran training programmes and events at TRC Media, in partnerships with Channel 4, the BBC and development agencies. Prior to this, Helena managed the creative industries activity at Scottish Enterprise Glasgow for six years. She has also worked in fundraising for Barnardo’s Scotland. Helena started her career in account management in the advertising industry, working in London with BSB Dorland and Abbott Mead Vickers BBDO, and in Edinburgh with The Leith Agency and Faulds.

On 17 October, Laura Mackenzie Stuart will join us as our Portfolio Manager for Theatre, Talent Development and Own Art. Laura is currently the Managing Director of arts promoters, producers and consultants, Universal Arts. With direct experience of the theatre industry, Laura brings an in-depth understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in Scotland. Laura’s previous roles include Deputy Director, Festival Fringe Society and Chair of the Associated Independent Venue Producers (AIVP). Laura has lectured extensively on the performing arts and commercial development at universities in Scotland and overseas.

Welcoming the new appointments, Andrew Dixon, Chief Executive of Creative Scotland said:

‘In our Corporate Plan we lay out our vision of being an advocate and champion for arts and culture, helping Scotland be recognised as a leading creative nation. Communications is a vital part of this vision, and I’m delighted that Kenneth has joined us to take the strategic lead and help make a difference.

‘We are also committed to working more closely with the creative industries in Scotland, a vital and growing part of our economy. Helena’s experience in the sector will be invaluable in helping us support its continued growth.

‘Similarly, Laura’s extensive experience in theatre production and development will make a significant contribution to our development of Scotland’s thriving theatre sector and, importantly, our continuing investment in talent. I’m delighted with all three of these appointments and I’m sure they will make a significant contribution to our work.’

Source: Creative Scotland