Rachel Cowper

Rachel joined the Trust in May 2022 to take up the role of Chief Operating Officer.  Throughout her career Rachel has been split between economic regeneration and working within the third sector.  Most recently as the National Programme Director for Children’s Neighbourhoods Scotland, a programme housed within the University of Glasgow – leading an evidence led, context informed place-based approach focussing on children and young people.

Prior to that Rachel led on the design and implementation of the Thrive Outdoors fund at Inspiring Scotland, which focusses on improving childhood health and wellbeing through access to and engagement with our outdoor and natural world. She is a leading voice in helping to change and shape attitudes towards outdoor play and outdoor learning at a national policy level and on the ground, which has gained international recognition and cooperation with similar programmes and leading academics in the field. In addition, she also developed and worked with Scottish Government on a capital investment programme to support economic growth and regeneration targeted at island communities across Scotland.

This built on her time in the Yorkshire and Humber region where she led the regions approach to foreign direct investment; managing staff nationally and internationally and attracting complementary businesses to the regional economy to relocate and grow.  Working in partnership UK trade and investment throughout and the local authorities.

This, alongside being a farmer until very recently, means it’s been a busy life. Outside work, good food, good friends and gardening are Rachel’s key activities to relax.