The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) has welcomed Garry Coutts as its new Chair, following his appointment by Scottish Ministers, effective from 1 August 2025.

Mr Coutts brings a wealth of experience in public service, housing, and social care, and has long held a passion for improving access to secure and affordable homes in thriving communities.

His interest in social housing dates back to the early stages of his career. Elected as a councillor for the Niddrie Ward of Edinburgh Council in 1984, he played a key role in establishing the Hunters Hall Housing Co-operative – the first of its kind in the east of Scotland and now part of Hillcrest Homes.

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In 1996, Mr Coutts relocated to the Highlands, where he was elected to Highland Council and later chaired its Housing and Social Work Committee. He went on to become Chair of NHS Highland, serving in the post for 12 years.

His leadership roles also include Chair of the Scottish Social Services Council in 2004, and in 2014 he became Chair of Children’s Hearings Scotland, where he was instrumental in ensuring the hearings system aligned with The Promise — Scotland's national commitment to care-experienced children.

Mr Coutts has also chaired the Court of the University of the Highlands and Islands, and currently leads the Highland Housing Alliance, an organisation focused on delivering mid-market rental homes across the region. Alongside his professional commitments, he runs a tourism business in the Highlands with his family.