The chief executive of a prominent conservation charity has taken up a leading role with the National Trust for Scotland (NTS). Stuart Brooks of the John Muir Trust (JMT) will become the trust’s new head of natural heritage conservation (policy). Brooks had been chief executive of the JMT since 2009, having previously been director of conservation with the Scottish Wildlife Trust. He is currently chair of the International Union for Nature Conservation UK national committee. His appointment is one of a raft of leadership changes announced by NTS. The charity has been restructuring, moving to a four directorate set-up which in turn supports six regional groupings of built heritage properties and one nationwide grouping of natural heritage properties.

At the end of what has been an unforgettable centenary year for veterans’ charity Erskine, chairman Andrew Robertson will pass the mantle to his successor and fellow trustee Robin Crawford. Robin joined the Erskine Board of Trustees in 2007 and chairs the Erskine Audit Committee. Speaking of his appointment Robin said: "“Erskine has continued over such a long period by adapting to ensure that its mission remains relevant to the needs of veterans. My focus will be on maintaining the excellent record of care of which Erskine is justifiably proud, while ensuring that we consider the emerging needs of current veterans.”

A major figure from Scotland’s third sector will spearhead the country’s efforts to tackle racism. Kaliani Lyle will serve as an independent advisor to the Scottish Government with the aim of advancing the race equality agenda. Ms Lyle was previously the chief executive of Citizens Advice Scotland and she stood down as Scotland’s commissioner for Equality Human Rights Commission earlier this year. She was also a member of the Christie Commission which looked at the delivery of public services.