The former chairman of STV and the National Theatre of Scotland is now the new chairman of Creative Scotland, the nation's arts funding body.

 

Fiona Hyslop, the culture secretary, has announced the appointment of Richard Findlay, who was the founding chairman of the NTS and oversaw the appointment of Vicky Featherstone as the company's first artistic director.

Findlay chaired STV group from 2007 until 2013, was chief executive of Scottish Radio Holdings and was the chair of the National Theatre of Scotland until 2013.

Findlay, who says it is a "pivotal time" for Creative Scotland, will succeed Sir Sandy Crombie in the role.

A graduate and later governor of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Mr Findlay also chaired the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh for six years in the 1990s.

Mr Findlay was made a CBE for services to the arts and creative industries in 2013.

He lives in Edinburgh.

Ms Hyslop said: "I am delighted to welcome Richard Findlay as the new Chair of Creative Scotland after an extensive and thorough selection process.

"Richard's experience in the sector, in the media, screen and theatre, are unparalleled and he has a real understanding of the issues facing our arts organisations today.

"Richard will lead Creative Scotland from strength to strength, supporting and challenging the organisation as it delivers on its ambitious 10-year plan

"Once again I would like to thank Richard's predecessor, Sir Sandy Crombie for his service, and for extending his period of office while a new Chair was found."

Findlay said: "I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as Chair of Creative Scotland.

"Having watched the achievements of the organisation since its inception, as well as the challenges it has faced, I feel I am joining at an exciting and pivotal time.

"Janet Archer and her team, supported by the Board, have put in place a coherent strategy and funding approach for the arts, screen and creative industries in Scotland, underpinned by a clear set of ambitions and priorities.

"I very much look forward to working with the Board, everyone at Creative Scotland and the culture sector more broadly, to deliver this ambition over the coming years."

This appointment is part-time.

He will be paid £250 per day for a time commitment of 4 days per month.

Findlay will be chair for four years until December 2019.

Findlay has not undertaken any political activity in the last five years and he does not hold any other ministerial Appointments.