My Name’5 Doddie Foundation (MNDF) has announced the appointment of Dom McKay as its new Chair, succeeding Ian Watt, who is stepping down after a period of dedicated leadership.
The leadership transition marks a significant moment for the charity as it continues its mission to fund pioneering research, support those affected by motor neurone disease (MND), and work towards a world free of the condition. Built on a vision of being “maverick collaborators”, the Foundation remains committed to challenging convention and accelerating progress in both research and community support.
During his tenure, Ian Watt helped guide MNDF into a position of strength, establishing a clear strategic direction and reinforcing its long-term sustainability. Under his leadership, the Foundation has expanded its impact through the combined efforts of its Board, Executive team and a growing community of supporters.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, Watt said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. MNDF is in a strong place, with an excellent Board, a committed Executive team and a community of supporters dedicated to raising awareness. I am confident Dom brings the right energy, experience and ambition as the Foundation continues to challenge, disrupt and drive progress.”
McKay brings a wealth of leadership experience across sport and major events. He is currently Chief Executive of the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and Executive Chairman of European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR). His previous roles include CEO of Celtic Football Club and a 13-year tenure as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of the Scottish Rugby Union.
Speaking following his appointment, McKay said: “I am honoured to be appointed Chair of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Being a friend of Doddie and Kathy, I can attest that his maverick ethos and refusal to accept the status quo remains at the heart of everything the Foundation does, from backing research to community support to raising awareness. Thanks to Ian’s leadership and the work of the Board and Executive team, the Foundation has solid foundations and an exciting, clear path ahead. I look forward to working with everyone involved to build on that momentum, accelerate advancements and keep pushing until we have a world free of MND.”
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Kathy Weir, Doddie’s wife, also welcomed the appointment, highlighting the importance of continuity in the Foundation’s purpose and values. She said: “From the very beginning Doddie wanted to make a difference to those with MND who came after him. He believed bringing unexpected people together, being loud and brave, and never settling was the only way progress would be made. Ian has helped protect and strengthen that purpose, and we are hugely grateful for everything he has done. With this at the heart of MNDF’s work, Dom understands what the Foundation means to the MND community, and I know he will help carry MNDF’s vision forward with love, fun and ultimately hope.”
The appointment comes at a time when MNDF continues to play a leading role in funding and guiding ambitious research into MND, while raising awareness of the disease and advocating for urgent progress towards effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
With a clear strategy, strong governance and an experienced team in place, the Foundation is well positioned to build on its momentum and pursue its goal of a world free of MND.
