Having previously spent four years with AREG as communications manager, David joined Vattenfall in 2009. He supported the development of the Clashindarroch onshore windfarm near Huntly, as well as the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre (EOWDC), of which AREG was a driving partner, before joining Shell in 2012.
David said: “I’m extremely proud to be returning to AREG as CEO. Despite leaving more than a decade ago, I’ve continued to be heavily involved through advisory groups and supported the organisation at every opportunity. There has been enormous change in that time but we’re now entering another exciting phase for renewable energy in Scotland, and I can’t wait to be part of that with AREG as we grow the organisation to champion both the production and use of low carbon energy – right across industries, communities and homes.
“The North East in particular has a strong base to work from with decades of energy experience and we want to make sure the local supply chain can take advantage of the exciting opportunities being created across the renewable energy sector from floating wind to hydrogen and wave power. I’m looking forward to engaging with members and fellow industry organisations to identify the challenges and opportunities for local organisations as efforts are ramped up to achieve net zero emissions.”
Jean Morrison, chair of AREG, added: “The board and I are very pleased to welcome David back to AREG in this new role. He has been involved with AREG for more than 15 years in various positions and his knowledge, connections and passion for transformation will be fundamental in driving us forward.
“Through his developer experience, David will bring fresh ideas and initiatives for the organisation as we continue to champion the supply chain and enable a just energy transition.”
Founded as a non-profit making organisation almost 20 years ago, AREG plays a key role in developing a sustainable renewable energy sector in the north east of Scotland and across the UK, supporting its members and attracting investment. With around 190 members, AREG aligns opportunities with capabilities in the supply chain, supports renewable energy businesses and facilitates the transfer of technology, skills and expertise from oil & gas.
Earlier in his career, David spent more than 20 years working as a civil servant across employment, offshore safety and latterly with the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC). He holds an MSc in Management from Robert Gordon University.