Kay Morrison will move to the charity from South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture.
The charity that leads culture and sport in Glasgow has announced the appointment of its new chief executive.
Kay Morrison joins Glasgow Life from her role as chief executive of South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, where she has led the successful transformation of the organisation over the past three years.
An accomplished leader, Kay brings a track record of strategic vision, partnership development and more than 20 years’ experience working across Scotland’s culture and leisure sector.
Previously, she was chief executive of Falkirk Foundation, the official charity partner of Falkirk Football Club, working to improve the health and wellbeing of local communities through physical activity and education programmes.
She will take up her new post in July, replacing Susan Deighan who helped create Glasgow Life in 2007 and is retiring after more than 30 years of shaping the delivery of culture, physical activity, tourism, and events in Glasgow on behalf of Glasgow City Council.
A passionate advocate for inclusion and reducing inequalities, Kay is known for her commitment to enhancing community wellbeing through the power of culture and sport as well as her contribution to developing national policy and direction for the sector.
Her appointment marks a new chapter for Glasgow Life, as the charity looks to an ambitious future and to helping more people lead richer, healthier, and happier lives through the delivery of world-class cultural, physical activity, and learning programmes and experiences.
Kay said: “It’s a privilege to be joining Glasgow Life at such a pivotal moment. As one of Scotland’s most important charities, Glasgow Life offers rich sources of hope, meaning and social connection to the people of Glasgow and visitors to the city.
“I’m looking forward to working with my talented colleagues and partners to deliver a fair and inclusive future for local communities, and ensuring our vision remains integral to the city’s social and economic wellbeing as well as building on Glasgow’s impressive global profile.”
Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life, said: “Kay is an inspiring leader with a deep understanding of the vital role our charity plays across Glasgow’s communities, and her experience, knowledge and networks make her the ideal person to lead Glasgow Life as we look to a positive and ambitious future.
“On behalf of Glasgow Life’s Board, I congratulate Kay on her appointment and look forward to working with her to ensure our charity remains a force for good at the heart of a thriving, inclusive, accessible, and resilient Glasgow.”
Susanne Millar, chief executive of Glasgow City Council, said: “I’m pleased to welcome Kay into the role of Chief Executive at Glasgow Life and as a valued member of Glasgow City Council’s leadership team. Kay brings a wealth of experience and a clear commitment to Glasgow. Susan Deighan has made an incredible contribution to Glasgow Life and to our city, and I know Kay is ready to build on that success.
“I look forward to working with Kay, in close collaboration with our city partners, as we continue to deliver on the things that matter most to the people of Glasgow. I also want to thank Susan for her exceptional dedication and wish her a long and happy retirement.”
