New chief executive at the helm

Kirsten Urquhart has been announced as the new chief executive of Young Scot.

Urquhart first joined Young Scot in 2005 and has been interim CEO since May 2021 following the departure of Louise Macdonald.  

A qualified librarian, her career started in the library sector before moving into the third and digital sectors, focusing on information literacy, digital innovation, and knowledge management.

Elma Murray, chair at Young Scot said: "The Young Scot Board is thrilled to appoint Kirsten Urquhart as the new permanent chief executive of Young Scot – following a competitive and robust recruitment process.

"Kirsten's exceptional skills in organisational leadership, commitment to social justice for young people, and vision for the future of Young Scot make her perfect to lead our dynamic team and organisation into the future."

Kirsten Urquhart said she is excited to be taking up the helm of Young Scot at a pivotal moment as it embarks on an ambitious new three-year strategy.

"It's been a privilege to be part of Young Scot for over a decade, in several different roles, and I am incredibly proud of the difference we make to the lives of the young people who need us most.

"I look forward to working with our fantastic team, supporters, partners, and stakeholders – to collectively achieve our future shared vision for young people in Scotland."

In 2020, Urquhart received the British Empire Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours List, awarded for services to young people in Scotland during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns.