Professor David Hillier, Associate Principal for Global Engagement and Executive Dean of Strathclyde Business School at the University of Strathclyde, has been appointed Interim Chair of Skills Development Scotland.
The appointment was made by Ben Macpherson MSP, Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education, and will run for one year from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2027.
Professor Hillier has served on the Board of Skills Development Scotland since 2020 and has chaired its Finance and Operational Performance Committee since 2022. The role has given him detailed knowledge of the organisation and its priorities, alongside significant experience in governance, financial stewardship, performance and risk.
Track record
Professor Hillier said: “It’s an honour to be appointed as Interim Chair given the crucial work that SDS delivers for the people and businesses of Scotland.
“In my six years on the Board I’ve seen the effects of that work first hand, and I believe that everyone at SDS should be proud of the organisation’s strong track record of delivery.
“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues at SDS and alongside Scottish Government and our other stakeholders to build on that track record, including the development of the organisation’s new strategic plan.”
Professor Hillier brings more than a decade of university executive leadership experience, including leading complex organisational transformation across restructuring, estates renewal and international operations.
He also has extensive experience of skills and workforce development, including executive education and employer-linked programmes supporting people with learning disabilities and those with experience of the criminal justice system.
Skills Development Scotland is Scotland’s national skills body, supporting people and businesses to develop and apply their skills. Working with partners locally and nationally, it provides services designed to support Scotland’s people, businesses and economy.
SDS is a Non-Departmental Public Body responsible to Scottish Ministers, with private limited company status. Board members are non-executive directors of the company.