Workforce Migration, Talent Attraction and the Future for Highlands and Islands

In partnership with Highland Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, this EDAS event, will highlight issues around workforce availability and talent attraction in relation to the future of the Highlands and Islands.  This is an issue that is topping economic and political agendas. It is intensified by concerns raised by Highlands and Islands based business leaders who are challenged in attracting and retaining both senior level staff and lower level skilled personnel. Whilst this has always been viewed as a problematic area,  businesses and the public sector are experiencing further challenges with EU nationals returning to more buoyant economies at home, the added concerns brought about by Brexit uncertainties and long term demographic trends.

We will hear from Professor David Bell on the debut report from the independent Expert Advisory Group on Migration and Population. ‘UK immigration policy after leaving the EU: impacts on Scotland's economy, population and society’ looks specifically at how the ending of free movement and future UK Immigration policy will affect Scotland's devolved responsibilities.

Our panellists will then highlight issues and measures to mitigate the impact on the Highlands and Islands economy and community. Panellists include, Chris Gaffney, Group Finance Director (& MD Elgin Mill) at Johnstons of Elgin and Chair of SCDI Rural Commission, on what this means for business; Morven Cameron, Head of Universities, Education and Skills, Highlands and Islands Enterprise shares HIE’s Talent Attraction Strategy; and Stephen Sheridan, Skills Planning Manager (North), Skills Development Scotland on Highlands and Islands-specific support for people and businesses.

This is an opportunity to learn, discuss and exchange views on an area vital to the future of the Highlands and Islands.