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Leadership Strengthened with two new members

Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston Community Company (FAGCC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Oliver Giles as its new Chief Officer and Martin McDonald as Operations Manager, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the community-led organisation.

The appointments come at a significant time for the Community Company as it continues to deliver vital services, invest in new community assets and housing, distribute community benefit funding, and work with local partners to create a thriving and sustainable future for the communities of Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston. The organisation, which is funded through a mixture of SSE and Nadara windfarm community benefit funds and earned income from its enterprise activity, oversees a broad range of initiatives including grant programmes, affordable housing and community facilities.

As Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Giles will lead the organisation’s strategic direction, working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, members and community partners to build on nearly two decades of community-led success. Their focus will include strengthening partnerships, securing investment for projects, delivering the companies commitments in the Local Place Plan and ensuring the organisation continues to make a lasting positive impact for our communities.

Joining alongside him, Martin McDonald will oversee the day-to-day delivery of the Community Company’s extensive operations. The role includes managing operational teams, community assets, grant programmes, housing, trading activities at Tarff Trading our community shop and supporting the successful delivery of projects across the area.

Martin replaces Karen Edwards who is retiring this summer after seven years service. During this time Karen has bought several valuable and important properties into community ownership including the iconic Glentarff House which the company plans to transform into two flats for affordable rent. Karen leaves FAGCC with an exciting portfolio of development projects that will contribute to the community’s vision for a sustainable Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston.

Catriona Watson, Chair of Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston Community Company, said:

“We are delighted to welcome both Oliver and Martin to the Community Company. Together they bring a wealth of experience, energy and leadership that will help us build on our achievements while embracing new opportunities for our communities. I speak for the whole board when I say we’re excited to work with them as we continue investing in the long-term wellbeing and prosperity of Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston.”

Oliver Giles said:

“I am honoured to be joining Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston Community Company at such an exciting time. This organisation has an outstanding reputation and track record for delivering meaningful benefits to local people, and I look forward to working with the Board, staff, members and partners to build on that success. Together we have an opportunity to create an even stronger, more resilient and more sustainable future for our communities.“

Martin McDonald added:

“I’m delighted to be joining the team and look forward to working with colleagues, community groups and local residents. The breadth of work undertaken by the Community Company is remarkable, and I’m excited to help ensure our operations continue to deliver high-quality services while supporting new opportunities for community development.“

The appointments reinforce the Community Company’s commitment to strong leadership, effective governance and community-led development. Established in 2007, the charity exists to ensure that community benefit funding from renewable projects and our local assets deliver lasting social, economic and environmental benefits for the people of Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston.