We're a passionate bunch, focused on connecting employers and education to benefit young people.
Director
Margo has over two decades of management experience spanning various sectors. She is experienced in managing teams to deliver against business objectives.
A supporter of DYW since its inception, Margo has previously been involved as an employer partnered with Meldrum Academy, a member of the DYW North East board and an Employer School Coordinator.
She understands the vital role that employer-school engagement plays in helping young people to connect their in-school learning with post-school opportunities. Margo is keen to raise awareness of the benefits to employers of supporting young people and is a proponent of the Young Person’s Guarantee.
Regional Lead
Alan joined DYW North East in 2021 as an Employer School Coordinator before taking up his current position as Regional Lead in 2023.
He particularly enjoys the people aspect of his role and the opportunity to bring partners and employers together to support young people.
With a background in the sport and leisure industry, Alan continues to enjoy keeping fit outside of work.
Regional Lead
Aimee joined DYW North East in 2021, having graduated with an MA (Hons) in Geopolitics & International Relations from the University of Dundee in 2010 plus an MSc in Human Resource Management from Robert Gordon University in 2014.
She previously worked in various operational HR and learning and development positions within the energy industry.
Aimee is passionate about bringing schools and businesses together to support young people to enter sustainable positive destinations. She works closely with DYW North East’s coordinators in Aberdeen city.
Aimee enjoys spending her free time with her family and friends, cooking and walking.
Programme Lead
Hannah graduated with a BA (Hons) in Public Relations from Robert Gordon University in 2016. She joined DYW North East in 2018 and has worked in a variety of roles within the organisation before taking up her current position as Programme Lead.
Hannah is very approachable with a keen interest in communication; she is an all-round people person. She enjoys working with schools, businesses and partners to create opportunities for both young people and industry.
Outside of work Hannah enjoys spending time with her family and watching football - she is a season ticketholder at Pittodrie. She also loves travelling to different countries and exploring new things.
Marketing Executive
Clare initially joined the team as an Employer School Coordinator before taking up her current role in 2022.
She has over two decades of experience in marketing and communications, much of which was gained working on a freelance basis. A graduate of Robert Gordon University, Clare holds the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations.
She enjoys using her communications experience and networks to highlight the importance of giving young people early exposure to different career pathways.
Outside of work, Clare likes spending time on her two favourite Rs - running and reading.
Our board provides DYW North East with vision, expertise and governance. Its membership includes senior professionals from the region’s identified growth sectors, as well as both local authorities.
Chief Executive
Currently Chief Executive of Katoni Engineering, James is an experienced leader with a strong track record in growing and managing businesses through change.
He has extensive knowledge of DYW North East, having held the dual roles of director of DYW North East and Research and Policy Director with Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce from 2013-2015.
James has a keen interest in economics and is a regular commentator in the press, writing mainly about the North-east economy and energy industry.
Regional Skills Planning Lead
Allison started her career as a police officer in 1984. After having her family she studied before gaining her PhD in Fish Immunology.
Allison worked as a research fellow with Aberdeen University before moving to the school of Medical Sciences where she lectured and coordinated an industrial placement programme. She also partnered with a number of European universities to establish a multi-centered MSc in Medical Biotechnology.
In 2017 Allison took up the post of Skills Planning Lead (NE) with Skills Development Scotland, where she works with partners to align skills provision to the needs of the NE economy.
Managing Director
Since graduating from the Robert Gordon University, Stuart has spent much of his time working for Mackie’s of Scotland across various roles. He was appointed Managing Director in 2023 after working at the family business for more than 16 years, latterly as its Sales and Marketing Director.
Stuart is well known in the local business community through his active involvement in supporting and promoting the Scottish food and drink sector. He sits on the food, drink and agriculture board with Opportunity North East - a private sector led economic group.
Stuart joined DYW as he is passionate about helping young people get the right start in life.
Board members
Education
Principal
North East Scotland College
Energy
HR Manager
Well-Safe Solutions