Two long-serving Aberdeenshire economic development managers are stepping down following years of running projects that have impacted significantly on the economy of the north east.
Morna Harper and Roddy Matheson have led Aberdeenshire Council’s economic development service for a combined total of 45 years and have both managed projects which have driven significant growth in the area.
Harper has led a team which covers business advice, community business support, business gateway, employability, regeneration and town centres.
She was instrumental in launching the Support for Aberdeenshire Business grant, which has supported countless business and numerous jobs for over 13 years.
Harper also initiated the Aberdeenshire Towns Partnership and Building Buchan New Beginnings project and she coordinated a response team to help Ballater businesses get back on their feet following Storm Frank in 2015.
Matheson has managed the Industry Sectors side of the team since 2002, leading his teams of European policy and funding and industry experts who support the growth of the agriculture, fishing, energy and tourism sectors.
In recent years his focus has been on working with partners on the Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband Programme – helping more than 80,000 homes in Aberdeenshire to access fibre enabled broadband.
He was also pivotal in the development and adoption by the Council of Biomass energy in several academies, and the installation of an electric cable in Fraserburgh Harbour to expand its capability.
Chair of Infrastructure Services Peter Argyle, said: “Morna and Roddy are both passionate and dedicated individuals who will be very much missed within Aberdeenshire Council.
“I can confidently say that for myself and on behalf of all senior councillors who have relied on their steady hand, vast knowledge and unwavering professionalism.
“I wish them well in their retirement and have no doubt that the work they’ve done over their many years of service will have a lasting impact and continue to be built on by the rest of the Economic Development team.”
Head of Economic Development Belinda Miller said: “Both Morna and Roddy have provided a tone that has sustained good humour, good decision making, strong values and a commitment and loyalty to Aberdeenshire Council and the communities within which they work.
“It is sad that we will lose such knowledge and experience in one swoop, but equally, they’ve both passed on their values and qualities to numerous staff who have been proud to work for them and with them over the years. It is a new chapter for both them and the service.”
