Rob Holland has appointed as director of National Autistic Society Scotland on an interim basis

A Scottish autism charity has appointed a new boss.

The National Autistic Society Scotland has named a new interim director.

Rob Holland, external affairs manager at the charity, will take over from Nick Ward for a period of six months.

Holland joined the organisation in 2019, and has many years of experience in the third sector, having previously worked as public affairs and parliamentary manager at learning disability charity Mencap for seven years.

Holland replaces the outgoing Nick Ward, who is joining Support in Mind Scotland as chief executive.

He said: "I am delighted to begin my new role as interim director of the National Autistic Society Scotland. Having been with the charity more than two years, I’ve seen firsthand the amazing and valuable work done by our staff and volunteers, and I am committed to making sure we continue to deliver for autistic people and their families.

“There is still much work to do in terms of campaigning for change and delivering vital services, and I am privileged to be leading a team who are tirelessly determined to fulfil those responsibilities.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Nick Ward for his amazing contribution as director for the past three years. His outstanding work in this role has left a positive and lasting legacy and we thank him for his leadership, particularly through the past 18 months which have been incredibly challenging for those of us in the third sector.”