A former leader of the RSPB Scotland has been appointed the new director of Conservation & Policy at the National Trust for Scotland. Anne McCall will assume this position in August, following the passing of Stuart Brooks in December 2025.
Background of Anne McCall
Anne McCall has been at the helm of RSPB Scotland since 2017. During her tenure, she initiated significant landscape conservation projects and wildlife protection schemes. These initiatives include:
- Peatland restoration programs across the country.
- The Cairngorms Connect project.
- The Orkney Native Wildlife Project.
Her valuable experience also extends to overseeing the care of land, historic buildings, and archaeological sites within the RSPB estate, which is comparable to that of the National Trust for Scotland. A qualified town planner, Ms. McCall holds a degree in history and politics.
New Role at the National Trust for Scotland
In her new capacity, McCall will manage various national conservation aspects of the organization. Her responsibilities will encompass:
- Buildings conservation
- Nature conservation
- Collections services
- Gardens and designed landscapes
- Archaeology
- Policy
- Environmental risk management
Phil Long OBE, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland, expressed his enthusiasm about McCall’s appointment. He stated that her skills and experiences align perfectly with the trust’s extensive conservation objectives.
Future Contributions
Anne McCall expressed her honor in taking on this significant role. She acknowledged the admirable scope of the National Trust for Scotland’s work and is eager to contribute to its mission of protecting and enhancing Scotland’s heritage.
