New recruits at HIE Caithness and Sutherland team

3rd July 2025

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has appointed new members to its Caithness and Sutherland team as the agency settles into its new premises and works to expand its client portfolio.

Claire Wilson has joined as head of business growth and investment. She leads a team supporting small to medium enterprises (SMEs) from across the patch to realise their growth ambitions. Claire's role includes identifying and advancing opportunities to attract investment into the area, helping to drive sustainable economic development and long-term prosperity.

Lizzie Blackwood is senior development manager, supporting local businesses and social enterprises to unlock opportunities and foster sustainable growth.

Catherine Souter is the new administration officer, supporting the finance team with budget management, invoicing and the implementation of organisational policies and procedures.

And Vicky Rosie has joined as administrator for Focus North, a role funded by The Highland Council. Vicky is contributing to the region's sustainable development and economic diversification through the work of the Focus North partnership.

Claire Wilson said, "I’m looking forward to working more closely with businesses across Caithness and Sutherland as head of business growth and investment.

"Supporting inclusive and sustainable development remains a key priority for us, and I’m keen to ensure we engage more widely with new and existing businesses to provide enhanced support.

“As part of our plans to expand our engagement in the region we’ll also be holding sessions in Tongue and Golspie over the next few months. This will be about closer contact with existing clients and engaging with new businesses with an aspiration to grow.

“More details on the sessions will be coming out soon. Meanwhile, we’re keen to talk to businesses looking for support with innovation or technology, or to cut energy costs and carbon footprint. Please get in touch with the team directly at Caithness.sutherland@hient.co.uk ."

HIE’s Caithness and Sutherland office relocated from its High Street office to the UHI North West and Hebrides College campus in Thurso last year.

Eann Sinclair, area manager, said the new location is working well for the team and their engagement with partners. He added:

“It’s great to have the new recruits on board. We’ve really settled into the new office at the college where we have close links with many of our partners, particularly those focusing on skills development.

“Like most of the Highlands and Islands this area has many challenges. But as recent research also shows, there are huge opportunities open to us, particularly in renewable energy as well as our key sectors such as food and drink and tourism. There are exciting times ahead with good cause for optimism."