Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance Tom Arthur has announced the appointment of Lesley Halliday as the fifth member of the Consumer Scotland Board.
Lesley Halliday, who has a background in utilities and a strong interest in consumer protection issues within regulated industries, has been appointed for the next four years.
The new non-executive position will play a key strategic role in ensuring the delivery of the body’s purpose to improve outcomes for current and future consumers, working with other Board members and the senior team.
Lesley said: "I am delighted to take on this new role as a Board member at Consumer Scotland at such an important time for consumers.
“There are many challenges facing consumers in Scotland including ongoing cost of living pressures, high energy prices and the transition to net zero.
“I look forward to working with the Board to provide the scrutiny and strategic direction for the organisation to ensure Consumer Scotland meets the needs of current and future consumers.”
David Wilson, Chair of the Consumer Scotland Board said:
“As the cost of living challenges continue for most households in Scotland, Lesley’s expertise in the energy sector will add to the current breadth of skills and expertise on the Board.
“I am delighted Lesley will join us at a very important moment in the development of Consumer Scotland.”
A qualified lawyer Lesley currently sits on a number of Boards and Committees including Scottish Water’s Independent Customer Group and the Scottish Fundraising Adjudication Panel.
Background
The appointment, which is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner, is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £230 per day for a time commitment of two days per month.
Consumer Scotland is the statutory body for consumers in Scotland.
Established by the Consumer Scotland Act 2020, it is independent from the Scottish Government and accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
Consumer Scotland’s purpose is to improve outcomes for current and future consumers and its strategic objectives are:
- to enhance understanding and awareness of consumer issues by strengthening the evidence base;
- to serve the needs and aspirations of current and future consumers by inspiring and influencing the public, private and third sectors; and
- to enable the active participation of consumers in a fairer economy by improving access to information and support.