Karen Meechan leaving tech body ScotlandIS after 22 years

The chief executive of tech trade body ScotlandIS is leaving her role after 22 years with the organisation.

Karen Meechan will officially step down on 29 May from the membership body which represents Scotland’s digital technologies industry. She will continue in an advisory capacity.

Chief operating officer Nicola Taylor will become acting chief executive until a permanent replacement is appointed.  

Meechan said: “ScotlandIS has been my entire career and, without doubt, some of the best years of my life.

“From the people I’ve had the privilege to work with to our incredible members showcasing Scottish tech to the world, I’ll always look back on my time here with pride.”

ScotlandIS members employ around 60,000 people across the country and contribute roughly £4.7bn to Scotland’s GVA (gross value added).

Andrew Williams, chief executive at Apptrix.ai and chair of the ScotlandIS board added: “I know I speak for the entirety of ScotlandIS when I say we are very sad to see Karen stepping down.

“From the moment she joined the company, she has been a great asset. Her leadership and drive have been instrumental to our success and there’s no doubt her legacy will be felt for years to come. We wish her every success in her next role and know she will be extraordinary.”