Scottish Enterprise strengthens North East presence with new strategic leadership appointment

Scottish Enterprise, Scotland’s national economic development agency, has appointed Bethan Vasey as its Director of North East Transition to strengthen its work with businesses and partners across the region and help unlock long-term economic growth. The new role will support delivery across Scottish Enterprise’s three strategic mission priorities, helping to scale company innovation, accelerate the energy transition and increase capital investment opportunities.

The North East is one of Scotland’s most important economic regions and is now navigating a significant economic transition. The next five years will be key in successfully bridging the gap between today’s industries and tomorrow’s opportunities, according to a recent report by Robert Gordon University and Scottish Enterprise. Scottish Enterprise will work closely with businesses, industry, academia and government to help attract investment, drive innovation and create high-value jobs, building on momentum already underway through initiatives such as the Energy Transition Zone, One BioHub and One SeedPod.

Bethan will lead Scottish Enterprise’s work, alongside our partners, to accelerate investment, innovation and productivity in the North East, and help businesses and communities maximise the opportunities created by the transition to net zero. Her appointment comes as the agency further sharpens its regional focus, bringing together expertise, partnerships and investment to support the next phase of economic growth in the North East.

Bethan joins Scottish Enterprise from Adura (joint venture between Shell and Equinor), where she held senior leadership positions spanning energy transition, major projects and operational leadership. Most recently, she served as General Manager for West of Shetland Assets and previously led Shell Aberdeen’s Energy Transition team, shaping strategy and major investments.

Adrian Gillespie, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise, said: “Bethan brings outstanding leadership experience gained with one of the world’s leading energy companies, alongside a deep understanding of the North East economy.

“Her appointment underlines our commitment to the region and to work with industry, government and regional partners to deliver economic transformation. The North East has a vital role to play in Scotland’s future economic success, and I’m delighted Bethan will be leading our team focussed on realising its potential.”

Commenting on her appointment, Bethan Vasey said: “The North East has a proud industrial heritage, world-class expertise and a critical role to play in Scotland’s economic future. The opportunities ahead are significant, from energy transition and innovation to attracting investment and development the industries of the future.

“I’m excited to join Scottish Enterprise and work alongside businesses, partners and communities across the region to help turn those opportunities into lasting economic impact, creating high-value jobs and supporting sustainable growth.”