A computing academic with expertise in AI and data has been unveiled as the new chair of Scotland’s technology trade body – ScotlandIS.

Professor Gordon Morison, dean of the faculty of computing, sciences and engineering at the University of the West of Scotland, takes up the role on the 24th of September at the organisation’s flagship conference, ScotSoft.

A previous board member for four years, Professor Morison takes up the new position as Andrew Williams, CEO of Apptrix.ai, steps down.

The appointment aims to strengthen the relationship between ScotlandIS, which was established in 2000, and the academic sector.

Professor Morison said: “I can’t think of a more exciting time to chair an organisation as influential as ScotlandIS. Despite its challenges, the Scottish tech sector continues to see new investment and opportunities – particularly in space, cyber security and green data centres – and there’s a strong sense of optimism throughout our membership.”

He added: “I’m looking forward to drawing on my experience in academia to find new ways for the two sectors to work together. We will continue to tackle the challenges facing our members and the wider industry, ensuring they get the right support when they need it. Andrew has created some brilliant momentum in this area, and I’m excited to build on it with fresh energy and focus.”

Professor Morison’s 15 years in academia spans leadership roles, AI and data science expertise, and deep industry connections that will be invaluable in advancing ScotlandIS’ efforts to build closer collaboration between business and academia.

Outgoing chair, Williams said: “During my time as chair, I’ve been incredibly proud of what ScotlandIS has achieved in bringing more people together. We’ve created opportunities for the public and private sectors to partner on innovation, supported businesses to collaborate with the Government on AI, and seen early-stage founders build valuable connections through the Founders Hub.

“At a time when conference numbers around the globe are shrinking, it was also fantastic to be able to present the Innovation Summit in 2025 and the AI Summit in 2026 alongside the ever-popular annual ScotSoft event.”

He added: “Our members continuously remind us of the strength of innovation we have right here in Scotland. As technology moves faster than ever before, I encourage all our members and the wider tech ecosystem, including our world-class universities, to keep thinking big and show other nations what we’re made of.

“I’m confident that under Gordon’s watch, ScotlandIS will continue to thrive. As we move into a new era of collaboration, I look forward to seeing ScotlandIS’ influence in key industry developments, including Scotland’s AI Strategy, and will be supporting Gordon every step of the way.”