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Nicole Paterson

Chief Executive Officer

Described as an optimistic, energetic leader, dedicated to collaboration and modern public service delivery, Nicole Paterson has nearly three decades of experience in local government, consultancy, and environmental leadership roles.

A multi award-winning leader, before joining SEPA, she was the Head of Environmental Assets at North Lanarkshire Council, Scotland’s fourth-largest local authority. In that role, she led initiatives focused on climate change adaptation, biodiversity, flood risk management, transport policy, and green spaces. She has also worked in local government roles across Stirling, West Lothian, East Dunbartonshire, and Argyll & Bute councils.

Nicole is a Chartered Civil Engineer and a graduate of the University of Strathclyde. A Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Institution of Highways & Transportation and the Royal Society of Arts. She has also contributed to environmental initiatives such as Climate Ready Clyde, Glasgow City Region Transport Portfolio, the 7 Lochs Wetland Park and the Inner Forth Landscape Initiative.