New director appointed to lead GWCT Scotland 

Dr Nick Hesford has been named director of the Game & Wildlife Trust (GWCT) in Scotland, bringing extensive research experience and deep knowledge of Scottish wildlife management to the role. 

Dr Hesford officially took over the position on 12 May after serving as interim director since January. His appointment follows a competitive selection process that attracted significant interest from both internal and external candidates. 

With a PhD in biodiversity and community ecology, he joined GWCT’s uplands research team in 2017 and has worked on diverse projects involving red and black grouse, capercaillie and wading birds. He notably led GWCT research projects on mountain hares in Scotland. 

Before joining GWCT full-time, Dr Hesford worked for ecological consultancies and rewilding charities, delivering practical conservation and habitat restoration at landscape scale. His connection to the GWCT dates back to 2010 when he completed a placement as a BSc student. 

“I’m honoured to take on this role,” he said. “Scotland has a distinct political landscape and its own unique ecosystems, creating increasingly complex environmental challenges. I’m thrilled to help drive forward our work supporting both biodiversity and sustainable land management.” 

GWCT CEO Nick von Westenholz lauded the appointment, noting Dr Hesford’s comprehensive understanding of the trust and his leadership of advisory services in Scotland over the past two years. Based in the Scottish Borders, Dr Hesford enjoys training and working gundogs and other country pursuits.