Spectacular sound and light show attraction set in Perthshire forest names new boss
“The Enchanted Forest is arguably the most significant and biggest outdoor cultural event in Scotland” – Gordon Morrison
The trust behind a spectacular sound and light show set in a Perthshire forest has appointed a new chief executive.
The Enchanted Forest Community Trust runs one of Scotland’s most significant cultural events, welcoming an estimated 85,000 visitors every year to the Highland tourist hotspot of Pitlochry, and reinvesting back into the community. The sound and light show has been running at Faskally Wood since 2002.
The trust has appointed culture and tourism industry leader Gordon Morrison as its new chief executive, as preparations ramp up for its milestone 25th anniversary year show.
Morrison joins the organisation following a distinguished career at the heart of Scotland’s visitor economy, including as chief executive of the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA). This role saw him increase its membership by nearly 50 per cent and strengthen the organisation’s role as a leading voice in the sector, working closely with government and industry partners, including during the Covid pandemic.
Morrison has also held senior leadership positions at OneRen and the Association for Cultural Enterprises, alongside earlier positions with VisitScotland and Edinburgh Museum and Galleries.
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He said: “The Enchanted Forest is arguably the most significant and biggest outdoor cultural event in Scotland. It is a hugely respected event, while also being multi-award winning, and extremely popular with visitors from both Scotland and further afield.
“Nela Popovic, as outgoing CEO, has left a brilliant legacy and I’m fortunate to be taking over from her.
“To be stepping in to lead an organisation that brings £10.7 million economic benefit to Highland Perthshire, and also reinvests back into its community, is a dream come true. It’s a real honour to join in such a milestone year for this fantastic event.”
Karen Bothwell, chair of the Enchanted Forest Community Trust, said: “Gordon brings with him exceptional leadership experience across tourism and culture, alongside a proven track record of delivering growth and sector influence. As we mark 25 years of the Enchanted Forest, his appointment puts the organisation in a very strong position to continue our good work and to move forward.”
This year’s event is taking place between October 8 and November 8.
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