Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, today announced the appointment of Christopher Holliday as Chair and Gillian Woolman as a Non-Executive Director of the HIAL Board
Chris Holliday has been appointed as Chair of the HIAL Board. He will take over from Lorna Jack who steps down from the Board on 31 January 2026. Chris, who has over 40 years’ experience in regional aviation has served as a non-executive director since March 2020 and is currently Chair of the Safety, Security, and Environmental Committee. He has over 20 years in senior executive and non-executive roles with regional airlines operating in Scotland and other island communities. He will take over the role of Chair on 1 February 2026.
Congratulating Chris on his appointment, Lorna Jack said: “Chris has been an outstanding Board Member and has been instrumental in our strategic planning and drive to future-proof our airports. The role of Chair of the HIAL Board is one of the most rewarding roles I’ve undertaken, and I will be passing the baton to someone who already has a deep understanding of our business. I am sure Chris will guide HIAL’s strategic direction with energy and professionalism.
Gillian Woolman will join the HIAL Board as a Non-Executive Director on 22 December. Gillian brings a wealth of knowledge and skills and is an experienced trustee, audit director, chief internal auditor, and committee Chair. She is a Trustee and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and a Trustee and the Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee of the Royal High School Preservation Trust.
Speaking on Gillian’s appointment Lorna Jack said: “I’m delighted to welcome such a highly experienced individual to our board. Gillian’s considerable experience, skills, and breadth of knowledge will complement our existing membership and contribute significantly to HIAL’s future strategic direction.
“Gillian replaces the skills and experience of Loraine Strachan, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Loraine for her contribution and positive impact as a Board member.