Mountaineering Scotland's new chief executive Stuart Younie

An outdoors enthusiast who has been a member of Mountaineering Scotland for many years will take charge of the organisation from next week.

Stuart Younie has been appointed chief executive of the body, which represents climbers, mountaineers, hillwalkers and snowsports tourers north of the border.

He takes over from outgoing chief David Gibson, who retires on Friday after more than a decade in the post.

Mr Younie was previously business development and programming manager at Live Active Leisure in Perth. Mountaineering Scotland said he brings a wide range of senior management experience, including strategic planning, business development and operational delivery.

“He is also passionate about the outdoors, having skied and walked in the Highlands since his childhood, and rock climbed since his university days,” it said. “He has been a member of Mountaineering Scotland for many years.”

The new chief executive has a degree in recreation management, specialising in countryside studies and is keen to promote the health benefits of an active lifestyle. He managed the sports development and outdoor education services for Perth and Kinross council for eight years, working closely with volunteers, local clubs and schools.

For the past six years he has been a voluntary director of the Scottish Sports Association and was appointed vice-chair in 2017.

Mr Younie grew up in Moray, and inherited his love of the Scottish hills from his father Harry, and as well as his love of the hills he also enjoys fly fishing, mountain biking and trail running. He lives in Kinross with his wife and three young sons.