Press Story

Stephen Boyd has been appointed director of Scotland’s progressive think tank, IPPR Scotland, and will take up the post in July 2024.

Stephen brings to the role over two decades of experience working in Scottish economic and social policy. He joins IPPR from the Scottish government where he held several posts in economic and labour market policy, his main areas of expertise.

Stephen previously held the economic and industrial policy remit at the Scottish Trades Union Congress. During his time at the STUC, he became a prominent media commentator, contributing regularly to broadcast and print media including the Sunday Herald, Glasgow Herald, Scotsman, Newsnight Scotland, Scotland on Sunday, the National and the Guardian.

In addition to leading IPPR Scotland, Stephen will join IPPR’s senior management team, contributing his expertise and experience to IPPR’s overall strategy and research agenda across the UK.

Established in 2015, IPPR Scotland has grown to become one of the leading think tanks in Scotland. It has successfully created tangible progressive change through policy, research and communications, generating evidence-based practical solutions. It has worked across various policy areas including Scotland’s devolved tax and benefit powers, Scotland’s budget, building Scotland’s economy, fiscal analysis, child poverty, inclusive economy, education, skills, social security and more.

Stephen Boyd, incoming director of IPPR Scotland, said:

“I am incredibly grateful and excited to be given the opportunity to lead IPPR’s work in Scotland.

“At this time of significant political change, there is a huge opportunity for IPPR Scotland to be driving key public debates around Scottish economic performance, social outcomes and the pace and nature of the net zero transition.

“I very much look forward to helping cement IPPR’s place as a source of compelling new ideas and analysis aimed at improving the lives of all Scotland’s people.”

Executive director of IPPR, Carys Roberts said:

“We’re thrilled that Stephen is joining us to lead IPPR Scotland at this crucial time for progressive policy and politics. He brings a wealth of experience shaping the policy agenda both inside and outside of government, and deep expertise in economic and social policy.

“Over the coming years Scotland will need clear and rigorous policy ideas, crucially that move beyond ambition to really deliver for Scottish communities and people. I am confident that Stephen will expertly lead IPPR Scotland to meet that challenge, alongside our partners and supporters, and very much look forward to welcoming him to IPPR’s senior team.”

ENDS

CONTACT:

Dave Hawkey, IPPR Scotland Senior Research Fellow: 07811 185837 d.hawkey@ippr.org

Liam Evans, Senior Digital and Media Officer: 07419 365334 l.evans@ippr.org

NOTES TO EDITORS:

IPPR Scotland is Scotland’s progressive think tank. We are dedicated to supporting and improving public policy, working tirelessly to achieve a progressive Scotland. We are cross-party and neutral on the question of Scotland’s independence. www.ippr.org