Entrepreneurial Scotland has announced that Andy Lothian, co-founder and chief executive officer of Insights Group, has been appointed as the Scottish business foundation’s new chair, taking the helm from Colin Robertson CBE, who has served in the role since 2018.

A long-standing advocate for developing talent and creating impact through entrepreneurship and business growth, Lothian brings significant leadership and strategic experience to his new role.

As CEO and co-founder of Insights Group, a global people development organisation headquartered in Dundee, Lothian has grown the business to over £97.6 million in turnover, employing more than 700 people, and counting over 10,000 practitioners operating in over forty countries.

In his new role, Lothain will help Entrepreneurial Scotland develop the next generation of Scottish business leaders through the charity’s flagship Saltire Scholars Internship Programme and peer-based membership initiative, The Exchange.

“Scotland’s future depends on developing ambitious, inspiring leaders who can turn vision into action,” said Lothian on his new appointment.

“Entrepreneurial Scotland plays a vital role in building that pipeline – equipping individuals with the belief, mindset and connections they need to lead transformational growth. 

“I’m privileged to build on Colin’s inspiring legacy as chair and to help shape a more ambitious and prosperous Scotland.”

Under the leadership of the previous chair, Colin Robertson, Entrepreneurial Scotland expanded its Saltire Scholar Internship Programme, claiming to support nearly 1,000 students to undertake internships around the world, and investing millions in their development. 

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 Robertson also oversaw the launch of The Exchange, a peer network for senior business leaders, which strengthened the charity’s role as a champion of entrepreneurial thinking in Scotland.

With this leadership transition, the Entrepreneurial Scotland Foundation hopes to continue to grow its impact and equip current and future leaders with the skills, mindset and connections needed to contribute to Scotland’s long-term growth.

“Andy’s values and leadership align perfectly with our vision to create the most entrepreneurial society in the world,” said Sean McGrath, CEO of Entrepreneurial Scotland Foundation.

“He knows what it takes to build high-performing teams, and he’s committed to helping others do the same. We’re incredibly grateful to Colin for his outstanding contributions and thrilled to welcome Andy into the role.”