Morison to strengthen links between technology industry and academic sector
ScotlandIS, the membership and cluster management organisation for Scotland’s digital technologies industry, has announced the appointment of Professor Gordon Morison as its new chair. Professor Morison, who has served on the ScotlandIS board for four years, will officially assume the role on 24 September at the organisation’s flagship conference, ScotSoft. His appointment aims to strengthen connections between Scotland’s technology sector and its academic institutions.
Professor Morison brings over 15 years of experience in academia and currently holds the position of Dean for the Faculty of Computing, Sciences and Engineering at the University of the West of Scotland. His background combines academic leadership with expertise in AI and data science, alongside established industry connections.
He will succeed Andrew Williams, CEO of Apptrix.ai, who has served as chair since September 2024.
Speaking about his appointment, 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. 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.”
