Connecting people to purpose at Scottish Forestry
I’m an Internal Communications and Engagement Manager at Scottish Forestry - the Scottish Government agency responsible for forestry policy, regulation and support. We’re passionate about the role trees play in tackling climate change and nature loss, supporting the economy, and enhancing the wellbeing of people across Scotland.
With nearly a fifth of Scotland covered in woodland, our work focuses on helping that grow in a sustainable way. We support landowners with funding and advice, guided by a simple principle: the right tree, in the right place. This helps ensure all Scotland’s forests are well managed, while helping to expand and protect native woodlands and the many species of animals and plants that depend on them.
My role is to connect colleagues with our purpose and priorities, making sure our people are informed and engaged. I work closely with teams across the organisation, from senior leaders to subject‑matter experts, to deliver impactful internal communications and meaningful engagement.
As with most comms jobs, it’s delightfully varied. One day I might be drafting a survey to see how our channels are performing, the next I’m out on a video shoot at a sawmill seeing what our grant funding has provided for local businesses.
I’m currently in the early stages of planning our second all‑staff in-person event. As a geographically dispersed agency with hybrid working, it’s a fantastic opportunity to bring teams together from across Scotland.
Being an IoIC member keeps me connected and informed. Access to best practice, expert insight, and practical ideas helps me elevate my work and bring fresh thinking to projects like these.
From external comms to finding a home in internal communication
Most of my career has been in external comms - PR, marketing, events, social and web - with a dash of internal comms along the way. When I decided to move into dedicated internal comms roles a few years ago, it felt like a fresh challenge and a chance to specialise. I love exploring new approaches, solving unique communications challenges, and finding creative ways to connect people with each other and the organisation.
Making the most of IoIC membership
This is my third time as an IoIC member. I’ll admit, I didn’t make the most of it the first time around (several years ago) but now I actively carve out time to engage with content - attending events, using the resources, and browsing conversations in the members’ section. It’s invaluable for learning how others tackle similar challenges and gives me practical ideas that I can weave into my work.
Trusting instinct and embracing the unexpected
In 2020, I made what some might call a bold move: leaving a permanent role of seven years in NHS comms to volunteer overseas. It wasn’t quite a career break as I wasn’t stepping away from communications, I just wanted to spread my wings, broaden my experience and stretch my skills. So, I took on a content creator role with an international development charity to document youth-led sustainable development projects in Central America.
When the pandemic hit, everything shifted. I ended up taking a six‑month detour to the Western Highlands of Scotland, working on a rainforest conservation programme, before eventually reaching my original destination of Costa Rica. It wasn’t the straightforward route I imagined, but it was all part of the journey. I’m proud I trusted my intuition and embraced the uncertainty - it was challenging but deeply rewarding. And funnily enough, I’ve come full circle - now working back in Scotland for an organisation that helps preserve Scotland’s precious rainforest network.
Building a career through curiosity and experience
My advice to someone just starting out in the profession would be to get exposure to as many communication disciplines as you can - it helps you understand what energises you and where your strengths lie. If you’re passionate about something but lack experience, take small steps toward gaining it. Learn from colleagues, stay curious about how others work, and make the most of the wealth of the resources out there - events, blogs, podcasts, networks. Take what resonates and let it shape your career journey.
One adventure I won’t forget
I trekked to Everest Base Camp in January 2020 when temperatures hit minus 20°C. The scenery was breathtaking, but that’s definitely the coldest I have ever been, and don’t want to experience again!
