Sean Buchan, Allan Henderson and Graham Mutch each bring significant experience in their respective industries to the DYW North East board. Also joining in 2026 is Paul Smith, who steps into the role of education board representative. The four incoming board members join at an exciting time for DYW North East, as the group seeks to strengthen its work with young people in the region under the leadership of new Director, Jamie Hutcheon.
Sean Buchan is Chief Operating Officer at professional services firm Norman Broadbent plc. He has two decades of experience in leadership advisory and global executive search, with expertise spanning market intelligence, business management, leadership and recruitment. Sean is committed to developing emerging talent.
Allan Henderson is a prominent advocate for the hospitality sector at a national level. He has grown The McGinty’s Group into the largest independent hospitality group in Aberdeen. As the group’s Founding Director, Allan is passionate about the role that young people will play in shaping the region’s hospitality landscape and supporting its development.
Graham Mutch is Head of Food & Beverage for Legends Global at P&J Live. He brings over 25 years’ experience in catering and culinary leadership to the DYW North East board. Graham’s appointment will deepen the work that P&J Live is doing to provide opportunities for the next generation, both directly and through the venue’s extensive portfolio of events.
Paul Smith is Assistant Principal of Planning & Communication at North East Scotland College (NESCol). He has extensive experience in strategic communication, stakeholder engagement and partnership working. NESCol is the region’s largest provider of vocational education and training and has ongoing membership of the DYW North East board.
The new members become part of a 15-strong board, which provides DYW North East with vision, expertise and governance. The board is chaired by Mavis Anagboso, Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Harbour Energy.
“The board is very pleased to welcome our new members, whose backgrounds and knowledge will be invaluable as we strive to prepare young people for the world of work,” said Mavis Anagboso, Chair, DYW North East. “I am confident that their contributions will enhance our activities.”
Jamie Hutcheon, Director, DYW North East said: “Equipping the next generation with the skills, knowledge and awareness they need to succeed has never been more important.
“Our new board members, with their extensive sector experience and networks, will play an important part in our efforts to encourage more businesses to provide our young people with the opportunities they need, so that they can contribute to a skilled, strong regional economy.”
Developing the Young Workforce is a Scottish Government initiative that aims to make it easier for employers and educators to connect and equip young people for the world. DYW North East is one of 20 regional DYW groups with responsibility for fostering these connections across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
