SEPA appoints new Chief Operating Officer for Regulation, Business and Environment
Date published: 20 October 2025
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have appointed Ross Haggart as Chief Operating Officer for Regulation, Business and Environment, following a successful interim period in the role and an extensive external recruitment search.
Ross brings valuable, strategic, regulatory and operational leadership perspectives from his experience beyond SEPA, serving most recently as Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service. Having started as an operational firefighter, he held a variety of leadership roles across operational, specialist and corporate areas of the service including responsibility for fire safety regulatory and fire investigation teams, in the fourth largest fire and rescue service in the world.
He was awarded a CBE in the latest New Year Honours List for services to fire and rescue and to charitable organisations, following the award of the King's Fire Service Medal in June 2024.
Ross joins SEPA at a time of significant environmental challenges and opportunities, where the organisation continues to play a vital role in supporting communities, businesses and public services across Scotland.
Commenting on his appointment Ross said:
“I’m thrilled to be permanently appointed to the role following an interim period. I have been made to feel very welcome since joining SEPA six weeks ago.
“Since I started with SEPA, it is clear that the organisation is full of committed individuals and teams who epitomise the values of passionate, professional and purposeful. We have embarked upon an exciting and ambitious transformation programme, which is focused on making the Agency the best it can be, enabling everyone to work together more effectively to protect Scotland’s environment. I look forward to leading and supporting colleagues within Regulation, Business and Environment and across SEPA.”
Nicole Paterson, SEPA Chief Executive, said:
“I’m delighted to welcome Ross to the Corporate Leadership Team at SEPA. His appointment adds to the blend of leadership skills, experience and perspectives of a strong executive team working together for the future of our environment and for Scotland.”