Harris Tweed Authority appoints new Chief Executive

The Harris Tweed Authority has appointed Fiona MacKenzie to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Fiona will take up the position at the beginning of March 2026, taking over from Calum Iain MacIver, who has been serving as Interim Chief Executive since the departure of Lorna Macaulay in late 2024.

Fiona joins the Authority from MG ALBA where she is presently a Commissioning Editor responsible for Sport, Factual Entertainment and Comedy output from commissioning to broadcast.

Norman L. MacDonald, Chairman of the Harris Tweed Authority said: “I very much welcome Fiona’s appointment, and I look forward to working with her over the next period. Fiona impressed the Interview Panel with her general knowledge about the industry, the transferable skills she will be able to bring to the Authority and her passionate approach to Harris Tweed® and to our island’s culture and identity”.

Fiona MacKenzie said: “It is a great honour to be entrusted with leading the Harris Tweed Authority and I very much look forward to the challenge. Harris Tweed® is a fabric like no other, and its legal protection under the Harris Tweed Act of 1993 ensures that only fabric handwoven at the homes of islanders in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland from 100% pure new wool can bear the iconic Orb trademark. For me, upholding this legacy means maintaining strict quality standards, supporting our community of skilled mill workers and weavers, and educating consumers on the value of authentic, sustainable craftsmanship.

Fiona concluded: “Harris Tweed® is special. It’s not just a fabric – it’s a living, breathing part of our island heritage and I look forward to playing a part in both preserving that heritage and looking to the future where new approaches and development opportunities await”.