We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Mike Donnelly as the new chair of our board of directors.
An accomplished business and management expert, Mike brings a wealth of expertise to help guide our work and support our mission.
Prior to joining Scottish Refugee Council, Mike worked in senior roles in universities across the UK and Australia, earning three honorary professorships. His expertise and areas of interest include public sector management, and operations and quality management in public services. He has also acted as an expert and special advisor to politicians at Holyrood and Westminster.
In his new role as chair, Mike will focus on building on the legacy of our previous chair, Rona Alexander, to create a long-term sustainable future for Scottish Refugee Council which best supports and welcomes all New Scots, wherever they come from.
Mike joins Scottish Refugee Council as we celebrate our fortieth anniversary as an independent charity. He said:
“When I see TV reports of people seeking refugee protection, leaving their homes and their lives behind in search of safety, I have one question in my mind: what can I do to help make a difference?
“I see the work that Scottish Refugee Council does every day to make a difference to people seeking safety here in Scotland. I’m committed to bringing my leadership and executive and non-executive expertise to support the work of the charity in its mission to build a better future with refugees in Scotland.”
Over his 35-year career, Mike has worked at the highest level of governance in universities across the UK and Australia. He is Honorary Professor of Management with Heriot-Watt University and with Queen Margaret University in Scotland, and with the Victorian Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Australia.
Our chief executive, Sabir Zazai, said:
“We’re honoured to welcome Mike as chair of our board. His depth of knowledge and expertise will be of huge value as we continue to work across Scotland with people rebuilding their lives here.
“I also pay tribute to our departing chair, Rona Alexander, for her passionate and committed service.”
Find out more about our board of directors.
Support our work with people seeking safety in Scotland.
