The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) has appointed Tamsie Thomson has been as its new Chief Executive.

Tamsie, who is currently a Managing Director of New London Architecture and was previously Director of the London Festival of Architecture, will join the organisation in July.

The RIAS is the professional body for all chartered architects in Scotland, and the foremost institute in the country dealing with architecture and the built environment. The appointment of Tamsie Thomson as Chief Executive is part of a programme of change at the RIAS that will see the organisation expanding its outreach and influence, and demonstrating the importance of architecture to Scotland’s economy, society and culture. Architecture, for instance, will be central to Scotland’s response to the climate emergency and the country’s post-pandemic future: the RIAS’s voice will therefore need to be heard more urgently than ever before.

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As a Managing Director of New London Architecture, Tamsie Thomson has helped to steer the independent member-supported network for debate, discussion and information about the future shape of London during a period of unparalleled turbulence. She leaves the organisation well-placed to continue its important work of bringing people together – including professionals, political and business leaders, and the wider public - through an inspirational and diverse programme of events, research and publications.

Tamsie Thomson has also worked at the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Shelter and the Civic Trust. She has taught architecture at the University of Brighton, and has been guest critic at several schools of architecture. She is an Honorary Fellow of the RIBA.

Speaking about her appointment she said: "It is a huge privilege to join the RIAS as Chief Executive, and I am looking forward to moving back to Scotland to take up this exciting role. I am relishing the opportunity to work with my new RIAS colleagues to support and celebrate the work of RIAS members in Scotland and around the world. I am a passionate advocate of architecture’s capacity to improve people’s lives, and believe that the RIAS has a huge role to play through its work with members, clients, decision-makers and the public. We have a shared purpose to inspire and influence, and to demonstrate the critical role of architects and architecture to Scotland’s cultural, social and economic life."