Ciaran McGuigan appointed as new Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland
Zero Waste Scotland announces Ciaran McGuigan appointed as new Chief Executive.
Zero Waste Scotland has today announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive – with Ciaran McGuigan, current Finance and Corporate Services Director, taking the helm after a robust, competitive recruitment process.
Ciaran succeeds Iain Gulland, who recently stepped down after eleven years in the role.
Welcoming the appointment, Zero Waste Scotland’s Chair, Dominic Fry, said:
“I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Ciaran’s promotion to the role of Chief Executive. In the four years since joining Zero Waste Scotland, Ciaran has had a significant positive impact on the organisation, preparing us for transition to Non-Departmental Body status and shaping the ambitious Corporate Plan we are fully engaged on. He is a natural and worthy successor to Iain, and I look forward to working closely with him in the years to come.”
The appointment was approved by Scottish Government, in line with standard practice for Government bodies.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, Gillian Martin, commented:
“I want to welcome Ciaran McGuigan to the role of Zero Waste Scotland Chief Executive and thank Iain Gulland for his long service to the organisation.
The Scottish Government is committed to achieving a more circular economy – one where we keep materials and goods in use for as long as possible – and Zero Waste Scotland is a key partner in supporting us with this ambition.
Our collaboration is an important one and I look forward to working with Ciaran and his team to help people and businesses reduce waste and lower emissions, supporting Scotland’s climate and nature targets.”
Responding, Ciaran McGuigan said:
“It is a huge privilege for me to have the opportunity to lead Zero Waste Scotland into our next phase as we grow the circular economy, create skilled green jobs, help regenerate communities, and deliver a resilient and prosperous economy that reduces our climate impact.
I’m very much looking forward to continuing to work closely with our Board, with Scottish Government, and, of course, the many key sectors and stakeholders who are vital to the delivery of Scotland’s circular economy ambitions.
I am grateful for the continued commitment and contribution of our strong Leadership Team and talented colleagues in driving forward our Corporate Plan to deliver on these shared aspirations.”
Ciaran formally commences in post from 1st February 2026, and further details of management arrangements for his replacement as Finance and Corporate Services Director will follow in due course.
“It is a huge privilege to lead Zero Waste Scotland… as we grow the circular economy, create skilled green jobs, regenerate communities, and deliver a resilient, low‑carbon economy.”
-Ciaran McGuigan