Former Labour MSP appointed as head of public affairs at SFHA

Former Labour MSP Sarah Boyack - Image credit: Scottish Parliament

Former Labour MSP Sarah Boyack has been appointed as the new head of public affairs at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA).

Boyack became an MSP in 1999 and was a member of the then Scottish Executive, first as minister for environment, planning and transport, which became transport and planning, between 1999 and 2001 and from 2007 as deputy minister for the environment and rural development.

A town planner by profession, Boyack has been lecturing at Heriot-Watt University after leaving the Scottish Parliament in March 2016.

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In her new post she will be part of the SFHA executive team, with responsibility for policy, research and media.

Commenting on the appointment, chief executive of the SFHA Mary Taylor said: “Sarah is well known throughout Scottish politics and widely respected for her effective leadership in collaborating across party lines to secure better outcomes for people.

“Sarah is experienced in turning policy into action to meet the needs of people who are vulnerable. Her knowledge, networks and skills will be a huge asset to the organisation.”

Boyack said: “The SFHA has already played an important role in securing public investment in new social housing.

“I am very much looking forward to be able to support members of SFHA to deliver that ambition with a new generation of good quality housing across Scotland.

“I am passionate about getting the best possible deal for tenants of housing associations, whether through the new social security powers or the potential for better health and wellbeing. This job brings lots of opportunity to influence for good.”