Andrew Walker: new director for Mountaineering Scotland

New Mountaineering Scotland director Andrew Walker, who has been appointed pending approval by the 2022 AGM, will have special responsibility for Communications and Member Services.

A keen hill walker, he has many years’ experience in journalism and public communications roles, and is looking forward to getting closely involved in the work of Mountaineering Scotland.

A relatively recent convert to hillwalking, it’s just five years since he began, in the Arrochar Alps.

“I climbed my first Munro on March 25 2017 – Beinn Narnain – and five years on I am delighted to join the Board of Mountaineering Scotland,” he said.

“During those five years I have discovered how mountains can benefit physical and mental health through enjoyment of Scotland’s landscapes and environment.

“Since then, I have climbed more than 60 3000ft+ summits and enjoyed exploring some smaller hills too, particularly around the Trossachs and Ochils.

“I have spent 29 years working in media and public communications roles, firstly as a journalist working in local newspapers, then a national news agency and then moving on to national titles.

“After a decade as a journalist, I moved into public sector communications, taking up leadership roles in the police service, working with Central Scotland Police, the National Police Reform programme and Police Scotland.

“Since May 2017 I have held the post of Head of Communication with Scottish Water, working on a range of corporate and service issues and campaigns.

“I am a member of Scottish Water’s WaterAid Committee which coordinates employee fundraising supporting vital projects in Malawi and Rwanda delivering clean water, decent toilets, and sanitation to communities. In 2019, I visited Malawi and saw first-hand the impact of introducing water and facilities into schools and healthcare settings which saves lives by preventing disease and encouraging good hygiene. I am the event lead for the Scottish Water Munro Challenge.

“I enjoy listening to music (the noisier the better) and going to gigs (the noisier the better), reading, cooking (curries a speciality), and travelling.”