We’re delighted to welcome two colleagues to new leadership roles at Scottish Refugee Council.
Colin Macfarlane joins us as Director of External Affairs. He will lead the shaping and implementation of our policy, public affairs, stakeholder engagement and fundraising strategy.
With two decades of experience in external affairs and business development, Colin has a deep commitment to social justice. He has served in senior leadership roles at Stonewall and the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Colin has also worked for the Disability Rights Commission and covered policy, research and communications in the Scottish Parliament, giving him a strong foundation in political strategy and legislative engagement.
He said: “It is such an honour to join the Scottish Refugee Council in its 40th year. As people seeking safety continue to face immense challenges, the need for strong, compassionate and principled advocacy has never been greater. I’m really looking forward to working with colleagues, partners and communities in championing the voices of refugees and those seeking asylum and influencing the public and political discourse to help shape a more just and humane response to those seeking refuge’’
Elodie Mignard is our new Director of Services. She will be responsible for overseeing our Scotland-wide refugee support services, including the national helpline, client casework, community development and a programme of training and resources.
Elodie joined Scottish Refugee Council in 2010. Over the last 15 years, she has played a key role in our housing policy and practice, refugee integration and learning and development services. As Senior Partnership Manager, she led our Ukraine response and is motivated by the desire to achieve better outcomes for refugees through productive and effective partnership working.
She said: “I’m really excited to take on this new role and work with our dedicated team to ensure our services are really accessible for everyone across Scotland who needs them. I’m looking forward to improving the way we work in partnership with others to deliver a national service that meets local needs, and ensuring that everything we do – from developing resources to delivering advice and supporting communities across Scotland – is informed by people with direct experience of forced migration.”
Our chief executive, Sabir Zazai added: “We’re delighted to welcome two dynamic new leaders to the fantastic team here at Scottish Refugee Council. Colin brings deep strategic insight that will help us build stronger, more influential relationships and amplify our voice as Scotland’s national refugee agency. Elodie brings years of expertise and strong commitment to service excellence, inclusivity and community development.
“They join us at a pivotal moment as we honour four decades of advocacy, empowerment and extending a warm Scottish welcome to those seeking sanctuary. Together we look ahead to shaping what the next 40 years will bring.”
