Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport (ICFGF) has confirmed the appointment of Alison Wilson as its permanent Managing Director, following a successful period in the interim role that has seen continued progress across investment, partnerships and delivery.
Wilson, who joined the organisation in March last year as Investment and Development Manager, has played a central role in driving the Green Freeport’s ambitions forward. Working closely with regional partners, she has helped translate long-term economic goals into tangible progress, supporting inward investment, job creation and sustainable growth across the Highlands.
Bringing more than 30 years of experience in economic development and partnership working, Wilson is widely recognised across the region. Alongside her role at ICFGF, she serves as Highland Chair of the Institute of Directors and is a Non-Executive Director at New Start Highland. Her previous positions include senior leadership roles with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the Green Freeport, with a series of key milestones expected in the months ahead. Major investments are advancing across designated tax sites, while new infrastructure and development projects are set to support business expansion and create opportunities for communities throughout the region.
As Managing Director, Wilson will lead ongoing collaboration with partners to maximise the benefits of Green Freeport status, ensuring long-term economic impact for the Highlands.
Jim Smith, Chair of Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, said the Board was unanimous in its decision.
“The Board is delighted to appoint Alison as our permanent Managing Director,” he said. “Since joining the organisation, she has built trusted relationships across business, government and our regional partners, and has played a key role in the investments made to date and the progress underway across our tax sites.
“She has a proven ability to bring people together around a shared ambition and understands that collaboration is key to delivering the Green Freeport’s long-term success. Alison combines strategic leadership with a collaborative approach and a genuine passion for the Highlands, and we look forward to working with her as the Green Freeport enters its next phase of delivery.”
Wilson said the opportunity ahead for the region is significant, particularly over the next 12 to 18 months as projects gather pace.
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“The Green Freeport has a real opportunity to make a lasting difference to the Highlands over the years ahead,” she said. “We’ve built strong foundations and will soon see major projects reaching important milestones, alongside new infrastructure and development coming forward.
“What makes the Green Freeport special is the strength of the partnership behind it. Every partner brings something different, but we are all working towards the same goal. Together, we are far stronger than we could ever be on our own.
“I’m incredibly fortunate to work with such a talented and committed team, alongside an experienced Board and partners who care deeply about the future of the Highlands. Our role is to create the conditions for others to succeed, and I look forward to helping unlock investment, support business growth and ensure more people benefit from the opportunities ahead.”
