FWB Advises on Appointment of Chief Executive at Zero Waste Scotland

FWB is delighted to congratulate Zero Waste Scotland on the appointment of Ciaran McGuigan as its new Chief Executive. Ciaran, who has served as the organisation’s Finance and Corporate Services Director, takes up the role following a robust, competitive recruitment process and succeeds founding Chief Executive Iain Gulland, who recently stepped down after eleven years of leadership.

Ciaran will formally commence in post on 1 February 2026, following approval of his appointment by the Scottish Government in line with standard practice for Non‑Departmental Public Bodies.

Ciaran’s appointment comes at an important time for Zero Waste Scotland, as the organisation continues to implement its ambitious Corporate Plan to 2030 and accelerates progress towards Scotland’s circular economy goals. During his four years with ZWS, he has played a significant leadership role, including acting as Senior Responsible Owner for the organisation’s transition to public body status and serving as a key architect of the Corporate Plan.

Dominic Fry, Chair of Zero Waste Scotland, commented: “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Ciaran’s promotion to the role of Chief Executive… he is a natural and worthy successor to Iain.”

Kirsten Hendry, FWB, commented: “It was a privilege to support Dominic and the team at Zero Waste Scotland with this important appointment. FWB supported the organisation with Ciaran’s initial appointment as Director of Finance and Governance in 2021, and it has been a great pleasure to see him contribute significantly and increase responsibility. This was a highly competitive process and Ciaran’s strategic insight, collaborative leadership style and deep commitment to the organisation’s mission were evident from the outset. It is fantastic to see his impact recognised through this well‑deserved progression.”

Ciaran brings decades of experience across financial services, governance, risk management, and business transformation — strengths that will support Zero Waste Scotland’s mandate to grow the circular economy, deliver green jobs, and drive emissions reduction.

Ciaran’s appointment reflects both the significant progress Zero Waste Scotland has made and its bold ambition for the future. We wish Ciaran, the Board and the wider ZWS team every success as they continue to deliver meaningful impact for Scotland’s circular economy.

FWB is proud to support Zero Waste Scotland in building its senior leadership capability at this crucial stage of its evolution. In addition to advising on their Chief Executive appointment, we are currently advising Zero Waste Scotland on the appointment of their next Director of Finance and Business Services and are accepting applications. For more information, please follow this link: Director of Finance and Business Services – FWB