(Image: Supplied)
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) has appointed pipe band veteran Meaghan Lyons as its next chief executive, with the new role set to begin in January 2027.
Originally from Canada and currently based in Northern Ireland, Ms Lyons will relocate to Glasgow to take up the position.
She will succeed Colin Mulhern, who is due to step down in March 2027 after supporting the leadership transition.
Ms Lyons brings 30 years of experience in pipe banding, alongside a professional background in fundraising, organisational development and communications. Her senior roles have included positions at Queen’s University Belfast and Historic Royal Palaces.
Her involvement in pipe bands began with the Glengarry Pipe Band of Maxville in Ontario, before she went on to play with the Rob Roy Pipe Band of Kingston and the Hamilton Police Pipe Band. She later joined Banbridge Pipe Band and Bleary and District Pipe Band in Northern Ireland.
Although she no longer competes regularly, Ms Lyons continues to support pipe band events and promotional projects.
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Meaghan Lyons said: "Pipe bands have been part of my life for 30 years, first as a competitive piper in Canada and Northern Ireland, and more recently through my work supporting bands and musicians behind the scenes.
"That personal connection makes this appointment particularly meaningful to me."
Robert Niven, chairman of the RSPBA, said: "We are delighted to announce Meaghan's appointment as our next Chief Executive Officer.
"She brings a valuable combination of professional expertise, strategic leadership and a deep understanding of the pipe band community, gained through three decades of involvement as both a competitor and organizer.
"Her experience in fundraising, developing partnerships and generating income will be particularly important as we look to build on the progress made in recent years and secure the Association's long-term future.
"As we approach our hundred-year anniversary, we see this as a real opportunity to utilise Meghan’s experience – both professional and personal – to reengage with our members and place the RSPBA on the strongest footing possible for the next century to come.
"The Board would like to express its sincere appreciation to Colin for his dedication and leadership during an exceptionally demanding period for the RSPBA.
"He has played an instrumental role in guiding the Association through the challenges of the post-pandemic years."