Scottish Land & Estates appoints David Johnstone as its new chairman

When David Johnstone takes up his position in May it will bring to an end Luke Borwick’s six-year term as chairman, first at the Scottish Rural Property & Business Association (SRPBA) from 2008 and then as inaugural chairman of Scottish Land & Estates following its launch in 2011.

Scottish Land & Estates (SL&E), which represents landowners and rural businesses across Scotland, already counts David Johnstone as one of its board members.

Speaking about his appointment, David Johnstone, who chairs the SL&E’s Large Estates Group and the South West Regional Committee, said: “I am looking forward to becoming the chairman of Scottish Land & Estates and it will be a privilege to take on the role and play my part in telling the positive story of landowners across Scotland.

“I am already involved with the organisation at various levels and through this work, I have seen the real difference that landowners can make to rural communities around the country. It is my task to help the staff and volunteers at Scottish Land & Estates continue to build on their achievements so far in the years ahead.

“Much of that success would not have been achieved without the contribution of Luke, who steered the transition to Scottish Land & Estates with consummate professionalism and tremendous energy. I’d like to thank Luke for creating a legacy where Scottish Land & Estates rises to the challenges its members face and ensures that those who care for the countryside as passionately as we do have a unified voice to speak with.”

Luke Borwick, chairman, said: “David is an outstanding choice as the next chairman of Scottish Land & Estates and as we look ahead, I’m delighted to be handing over the reins to someone who will articulate the organisation’s vision for years to come.

“David has demonstrated through his work with us and at Annandale Estates that cooperation and partnership between private, community and public interests can create real benefits for rural Scotland. His recent role in helping facilitate a community buy-out at Johnstonebridge demonstrates clearly that the stereotypical image of a landowner that so many want to perpetuate is outdated and inaccurate. I am sure he will now use this experience to help our members achieve their personal and collective goals.

Douglas McAdam, chief executive of Scottish Land & Estates, said: “David has already demonstrated his commitment to dealing with the tasks that the organisation undertakes on behalf of the membership. David will have a hard act to follow when Luke’s terrific chairmanship of Scottish Land & Estates concludes but I am certain that David’s commitment, leadership and vision will be of welcome benefit to all our members in the months and years ahead.”

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