Karen Meechan, the chief executive of Scotland’s tech trade body – ScotlandIS – will step down at the end of May after 22 years service with the organisation.
Meechan will continue to support the board in an advisory capacity with ScotlandIS’ chief operating officer, Nicola Taylor, stepping in as acting CEO from 29 May, until a new leader is appointed.
Having held the position of CEO since 2021, Meechan has successfully steered ScotlandIS through various economic headwinds and has consistently been a strong, influential voice for its members and the wider tech sector in Scotland.
Prior to her role as CEO, Meechan held the titles of head of operations from 2004 and COO in 2019.
She 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.
“But it feels like the right moment for my next adventure. The organisation has gone from strength to strength in recent years, driven by a fantastic team and hugely supportive board. I’m confident that under their watch ScotlandIS will continue to listen closely to the needs of its members and the wider industry, and that the new CEO will keep driving the change our sector deserves. With that, they will have my full support.”
Andrew Williams, CEO 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.
“But with change comes opportunity. The past few years have been economically challenging to say the least. Despite uncertainty, however, the tech industry continues to flourish – and ScotlandIS has played a key role in that. With so many initiatives and programmes underway, we have an exciting future ahead, and I fully believe that we will find a leader who can build on the strength of ScotlandIS’ current momentum and unlock even more opportunity.”
Recruitment for a new CEO is due to commence in April 2026.
