News

Scottish Rowing is delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Martin as Head of Development and Coaching and Gillian Stewart as Head of Operations, further strengthening the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team. These newly created roles will play a central part in supporting our clubs, empowering our people, and ensuring that the sport continues to grow in a way that is inclusive, sustainable and successful at every level.

Adam Martin - Head of Development and Coaching

Following a competitive recruitment process, Adam Martin has been appointed as Scottish Rowing’s Head of Development and Coaching. Adam brings over a decade of experience in sports development, coaching and volunteer leadership, having worked with more than 800 clubs and 50,000 members during his time at Bowls Scotland.

As Coach & Volunteer Manager, he led the creation of a national tutor workforce, introduced a digital learning platform, and developed innovative qualifications such as the Introduction to Coaching Para Bowls. His leadership extended to the global stage as European lead for the World Bowls Coach Advisory Panel, and he also stepped in as Interim High Performance Manager, guiding Scotland’s national team to exceed medal targets at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 World Championships.

Earlier in his career, Adam spent eight years as an Active Schools Coordinator with East Lothian Council, and gained major event experience at London 2012 and Glasgow 2014. Adam will take up his post on Monday 27 October.

Scottish Rowing’s new Head of Development and Coaching, Adam Martin, said:

“I am absolutely delighted to be appointed Head of Development and Coaching with Scottish Rowing and cannot wait to get started in the coming weeks. I have always been hugely passionate about the power of sport and fully believe that, when done positively, sport has the power to change people’s lives for the better.

“With rowing at such an exciting time in its development, I want to ensure we listen and engage with all clubs, no matter their size or location, so we can work collaboratively and ensure all clubs thrive and grow as a collective.”

Gillian Stewart - Head of Operations

Gillian Stewart has been appointed as Scottish Rowing’s first Head of Operations, a role that will see her lead the organisation’s day‑to‑day operations, strengthen key partnerships, and drive initiatives that enhance both the sport’s infrastructure and its long‑term sustainability.

Gillian has worked for Scottish Rowing since 2022, when she was initially recruited as Programme Manager for the Scottish Rowing Centre. In that role, she played a key part in developing its use as a hub for athletes, coaches and the wider community. Prior to joining Scottish Rowing, Gillian built her career in the fitness and wellbeing sector, working as a personal trainer and managing a gym in Glasgow.

Since stepping into the Interim Pathway Development Lead role in 2024, Gillian has been a valued member of the Senior Leadership Team, strengthening relationships with key partners including North Lanarkshire Council and British Rowing.

Gillian has played a central role in delivering the national events programme, overseeing the Scottish Rowing Centre’s operations, and tackling building management challenges with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. She brings proven experience in operational delivery alongside a commitment to developing new income streams and commercial partnerships to support the sport’s long‑term growth.

Scottish Rowing’s new Head of Operations, Gillian Stewart, said:

“I'm looking forward to taking on this new Head of Operations role at Scottish Rowing. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact – strengthening our systems, supporting our people, and helping drive the sport forward across Scotland.

“Looking ahead, Scottish Rowing has an ambitious vision, and I’m excited to play my part in building the partnerships, resources and structures that will ensure we can deliver it and create the conditions for rowing to thrive at every level."

Scottish Rowing Chief Executive Officer, Lee Boucher, welcomed the appointments:

“We are thrilled to welcome Adam and Gillian to our Senior Leadership Team. Their skills and experience will be vital as we continue to modernise Scottish Rowing and prepare the organisation for the future. These appointments enhance our ability to support clubs, grow participation and ensure rowing in Scotland is recognised as a sport for everyone.”

These appointments come at a pivotal time for Scottish Rowing, as the organisation develops its new strategic plan for 2026 and beyond, with a clear focus on encouraging people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the many physical, mental and social benefits of rowing.