She brings extensive experience of charities and commercial organisations

A leading figure in Scotland’s third sector has landed a major corporate role.

Aspen People, a specialist executive search organisation, has appointed Edel Harris as its new non-executive chair.

The company said that the appointment will support its goal to double turnover over the next three years and expand its team.

Edel, who succeeds Professor Lorne Crerar, brings extensive experience in both the charity sector and commercial organisations.

Her career includes serving as CEO of the Royal Mencap Society and social care charity Cornerstone, as well as her current roles as chair of the EY Foundation, chair of Aberdeen Performing Arts and non-executive director on the board of the National Care Group.

In 2024, Edel was appointed to chair the Scottish Government’s Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment. In 2021, she was honoured with an OBE for her work to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

She said: “I am thrilled to be joining Aspen People at such an exciting time in the company’s journey. The organisation has a strong track record of supporting meaningful change through leadership recruitment, particularly within the public and third sector.

“I look forward to working with the team to accelerate the company’s growth and ensure it continues to make a positive impact on the organisations and communities it serves.”

Aspen People, which is headquartered in Glasgow, was established in 2012 as a “purpose-driven executive search business with a focus on delivering leadership roles to organisations that are making a real difference in society”.

In addition to its expertise in the third sector and education, the company says it has deep knowledge in housing associations, health and care, government agencies, and local government.