Euan McVicar has been chosen as the new chair of Crown Estate Scotland, following the completion of Amanda Bryan's term at the end of June. Scottish ministers have appointed McVicar, who has served on the Crown Estate Scotland Board since the summer of 2021, for a three-year tenure commencing in early July.
Bringing a wealth of experience in the fields of energy, law, and green investments, McVicar has amassed valuable expertise from his work in both the private and public sectors. Crown Estate Scotland, established in 2017, manages the Scottish Crown Estate, a property portfolio that channels all net revenue back to the Scottish government for public expenditure.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, McVicar stated, “Crown Estate Scotland's unique mandate positions it to play a pivotal role in Scotland's endeavor to address the climate and nature crises while fostering sustainable economic growth. The team's expertise, the diverse portfolio we manage, and the mission to create social, economic, and environmental value make this organization exceptionally exciting to lead.”
He also extended gratitude to Amanda Bryan for her tireless efforts over the past six years in establishing Crown Estate Scotland as a progressive, transparent, and purpose-driven enterprise. Bryan's exceptional leadership has been instrumental in generating over £800 million for public spending, ensuring that the organization's initiatives benefit communities and businesses across Scotland, and successfully overseeing ScotWind leasing.
McVicar previously held the position of chair of the Investment Committee and general counsel at the UK Green Investment Bank. He also served as a partner, leading the energy transactions and advisory team at the international law firm Pinsent Masons. Currently, he works as a consultant and senior climate advisor at the firm. Additionally, McVicar has experience as the general counsel and an executive committee member at Ofgem.
Residing in rural Scotland, near Biggar, McVicar serves as a director of The Biggar Gin Company Limited.
As of April 2022, Crown Estate Scotland has returned £60 million to the Scottish Government, and the Scottish Crown Estate holds a valuation of £568.2 million.
The appointment of Euan McVicar as the new chair brings with it a wealth of expertise and a commitment to advancing Crown Estate Scotland's mission of sustainable development, contributing to Scotland's fight against climate change and ecological challenges. With a diverse portfolio under its management, Crown Estate Scotland is poised to continue driving positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes for the benefit of Scotland and its communities.
