He replaces Major General Buster Howes, who stood down in August
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a registered Scottish charity - has appointed Jason Barrett as its new CEO as the world-renowned spectacle looks ahead to an exciting future.
Jason steps up from his role as chief operating officer, having originally joined the Tattoo three years ago, and takes over from Major General Buster Howes, who stood down in August.
Originally from Colorado, Jason has the military in his blood, having served for both the US and UK militaries. He served for 20 years as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he held leadership positions involved in high-level strategic planning and on active service with the UK Royal Marines. Jason retired from the Marine Corps as lieutenant colonel in 2010 having led over 1,000 marines with $150 million in assets.
He then spent over 10 years in the hospitality industry, holding various chief executive and management roles, before joining the Tattoo and using this experience to help shape the organisation’s 10-year plan, alongside senior management colleagues.
Jason takes the reins as CEO at an incredibly exciting time in the Tattoo’s history, following a hugely successful run this summer, with planning well underway for next year’s Show, Journeys, and its 75th anniversary on the horizon in 2025.
Bill Morris, Chair of the Tattoo Board at the Tattoo, said: “I’d like to thank Buster for all his efforts in guiding the Tattoo brilliantly through unprecedented challenges with the global pandemic. We’re immensely grateful for his huge contribution to bring the iconic Show back to the Castle Esplanade, rejuvenated and stronger than ever.
“As we look to the future, we are thrilled to welcome Jason as CEO. The role of CEO of the Tattoo is unique but with his mix of military and business experience, it’s the perfect fit for him.
“He’s an incredibly passionate individual, super-proud of the rich culture in his adopted Scottish home and I’m excited to see him drive the business forward.
“Having been a huge part of our team for three years already, he understands the inner workings of the Tattoo which will help him hit the ground running and he’s well-respected by all, with a proven track record of business leadership, strategic thinking and a commercial focus.”
