He takes over from interim chair Mike Beale. 

Aberdeenshire farmer and businessman Robbie Brown has been appointed chairman of Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA).

Robbie, 53, takes over from interim chair Mike Beale and will serve up to two terms in office.

Now running a pedigree Beef Shorthorn herd at his north east Causewayend Farm, Robbie’s previous lengthy career in law saw him work in London and Australia, before taking on a partnership at Maclay Murray and Spens in Edinburgh, specialising in corporate law.

In 2010, Robbie, who is married with two adult sons, was appointed general counsel and company secretary at Wood Group. He also served as a non-executive director at Scottish Leather Group for 10 years until 2023, latterly as chairman.

Robbie’s previous charity experience includes as former chair of Loretto Foundation.

“The appeal of working with such a dedicated, respected and worthwhile charity as SCAA was a strong attraction,” he said.

“I’m delighted to be appointed Chairman and look forward to supporting this vital Scottish life-saving charity and the exceptional trustees, staff and crew who work there.”

Robbie said he was honoured to be taking on responsibility in leading the board of trustees to further develop the charity-funded Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) for Scotland, launched in 2013.

The new chair pointed out that having responded to more than 6,000 call outs and raising over £60 million in public support in 11 years, SCAA had an impressive track record.

“I’m humbled to be involved with a charity that is making such a difference to the lives of thousands of people in Scotland,” said Robbie. “SCAA has the potential to continue its growth – expanding the service, responding to more emergencies, saving more lives and impacting positively on even more people.

“I’m excited to be able to play a part in the charity’s next chapter and help drive and support its future.”

Following an extensive recruitment process, Robbie’s appointment, ratified at SCAA’s September AGM, is part of the charity’s strengthening of its board following the retiral of two long-serving trustees.

Also joining the board are pilot Mike Stewart, an RAF veteran and currently commercial pilot with Jet2, and former Edinburgh Rugby professional Sean Cox, now director of clients department with Baillie Gifford.

SCAA trustees Alan Bell and Andrew Richmond both step down this month following 11 years on the board. Mike Beale will remain on the board and take over as chair of the operations committee.

SCAA chief executive David Craig reflected on the significant contribution by Alan and Andrew and noted that the wealth of experience and specialist skills newly recruited would prove invaluable.

“The board recognises the importance of good governance and, following a review of the skills and experience needed going forward, these appointments further strengthen the key areas that we, as a charity, require as we develop our purpose and ambition,” he said. “From aviation and health experience to Third Sector skills and legal to business acumen, SCAA’s 12-strong board covers all aspects of the charity’s work.

“Robbie and his board of trustees will play a key role in shaping and supporting SCAA as we fly into the future.”