A NEW permanent chief executive has been appointed at South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE).

Jane Morrison-Ross, who is currently CEO of ScotlandIS, will take on the role in February 2021 to “drive forward SOSE’s vision to be bold, ambitious, and deliver for the South”.

The appointment brings an end to the 10-week recruitment process that started in September.

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Ms Morrison-Ross, who takes over from interim CEO Nick Halfhide, says she is “delighted to take up the reins from Nick”.

“He and the team at SOSE have done an incredible job so far in hugely challenging circumstances,” said Morrison-Ross.

“The SOSE region covers an area of Scotland rich in heritage but also with huge future potential.

"We will continue to be innovative, entrepreneurial, and focused on delivering for the individuals, communities, businesses and economy of the South of Scotland.”

The chairman of the SOSE, Russel Griggs, says he hopes the appointment will continue efforts to “deliver lasting change in Scotland”.

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“We have embarked on such an incredible journey for the South of Scotland so I am sure that with Jane’s experience and enthusiasm we will continue to drive forward our vision and passion for our region,” he said.

“Jane adds to the incredible team that we have been steadily building and we have almost 70 members of staff now.

“We also have an exceptional board who have a broad range of knowledge and experience and have already shown since we started, their passion and commitment both to SOSE and the South of Scotland.”

The SOSE works to develop communities and the economic situation in the Borders as well as Dumfries and Galloway.