The chairman of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is standing down.
Melanie Allen has been chair of the organisation’s partnership board since 2021 but is now taking on the role of director of marketing and communications for Visit Isle of Man.
Ms Allen, who owns Nithbank country estate and luxury B&B near Thornhill with husband John, said: “During my tenure as chair, vice-chair and partnership board member, I feel privileged to have worked alongside remarkable individuals who are deeply committed to the GSA Biosphere and everything that it stands for.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to all trustees of the partnership board and commend our exceptional team for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, with many outstanding achievements recognised over the past few years and even closer working relationships with the UK Man and the Biosphere Programme and the UK National Commission for UNESCO.
“The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man share synergies that offer promising opportunities for future collaboration.
“I am optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead as the UNESCO Biosphere ethos continues to be a guiding light in my professional life.”
GSA Biosphere director, Ed Forrest, said: “Melanie’s leadership has helped steer our organisation through a transformative period which included the UNESCO region nearly doubling in size last year through the inclusion of the marine environment.
“Her expertise in destination management has helped Galloway and Southern Ayrshire reach new national and international audiences and inspired a huge range of local businesses to innovate and create, not only through Melanie’s enthusiasm as chair but by her own story as a tourism start-up.
“Despite the loss to the GSAB Partnership, Melanie’s new post represents an exciting opportunity for partnership working with our sister designation, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, and we look forward to keeping in touch and making the most of this connection.”
Biosphere vice-chairman John Thomson, who has been on the partnership board for 12 years, will be interim chair until autumn’s AGM.
Mr Thomson, a farmer and business owner, said: “It’s my great privilege to take the reins from Melanie Allen and steer the GSAB Partnership through the next few months. We have an exciting time ahead, awaiting the outcome of the joint bid for a Galloway National Park while further developing the many diverse projects which the biosphere has under way.
“Melanie has been a passionate supporter of our UNESCO Biosphere from the moment she and her family arrived in southwest Scotland and we know that her advocacy will continue in both personal and professional spheres. Our very best wishes go with Melanie to the Isle of Man.”
