Scottish Enterprise has appointed Bethan Vasey as its Director of North East Transition, a new role created to sharpen the agency’s regional focus as the North East economy navigates a significant shift.
The agency said the appointment is intended to strengthen its work with businesses and partners across the region and help unlock long-term economic growth. The role supports delivery across Scottish Enterprise’s three strategic mission priorities: scaling company innovation, accelerating the energy transition, and increasing capital investment opportunities.
Scottish Enterprise cited a recent joint report with Robert Gordon University in framing the next five years as critical to bridging today’s industries and future opportunities in the North East. The agency intends to work with businesses, industry, academia and government to attract investment, drive innovation and create high-value jobs, building on initiatives already underway including the Energy Transition Zone, One BioHub and One SeedPod.
Vasey joins from Adura, the Shell–Equinor joint venture, where she held senior leadership positions spanning energy transition, major projects and operational leadership. She most recently served as General Manager for West of Shetland Assets and previously led Shell Aberdeen’s Energy Transition team, where she shaped strategy and major investments.
“Bethan brings outstanding leadership experience gained with one of the world’s leading energy companies, alongside a deep understanding of the North East economy,” said Adrian Gillespie, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise.
“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.”
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Commenting on her appointment, Bethan Vasey, Director of North East Transition at Scottish Enterprise, 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.”
