Julian is Head of Rural at Scottish Enterprise (SE), responsible for leading SE's approach to rural economic development, the delivery of its rural initiatives and business leadership development. He has been with Scottish Enterprise and its predecessor, the Scottish Development Agency, for over 30 years and has worked with a wide range of private and public sector partners across rural Scotland and beyond.
Julian's own dedication and commitment to rural Scotland is second to none. He has a deep knowledge of rural Scotland; the land, it's people, the economy and the environment. He works in a highly respectful manner, patiently taking the time to understand your concerns, then supporting your business in every way he can, connecting you with his network, communicating, encouraging and always keen to help you progress. He is forward thinking, quick witted, energetic and kind. His commitment to each individual is the same. By recognising how to support rural Scotland, Julian has made an immeasurable impact on rural Scotland by initiating the Rural Leadership Programme. This is a result of Julian's own outstanding qualities as an individual. The lasting contribution the course has made over 15 years is testament to it's success, but also to Julian's dedication, hard work, good nature and commitment.
The impact of Julian Pace can be seen in many ways. As head of the Rural Leadership Programme, Julian has given over 700 students across Scotland the qualification to be a leader in rural Scotland. The course accepts people from all rural backgrounds, the only real qualification being that you are a rural business person. People of all academic abilities, professional standing and qualifications are included; because all are ultimately and equally relevant to the success of rural Scotland. Each and every one of these students has been empowered in their field in rural Scotland; empowered in their entrepreneurial ideas, their business models, their aspirations for rural Scotland and, most importantly, in themselves personally. The Rural Leadership Programme has created a community and network within itself where rural people are seen as equals but collectively powerful in their contribution to a strong and vibrant rural economy. The students are seen as a respected, knowledgeable and professional network. From what is a meagre budget, a legacy in it's people and their skills, is the greatest impact Scottish Enterprise Rural could aspire to deliver for rural Scotland. It's impact is felt globally in the Rural Leadership Forums developed and nurtured by the course. Julian Pace has been central to the impact of the Rural Leadership course on rural Scotland. His personal effort and commitment to this is worthy of an award which recognises his own outstanding contribution to rural Scotland.
In terms of sheer volume, the Scottish Rural Leadership Programme, which began as a pilot in 2006, now has over 700 alumni from a wide range of sectors including agriculture, food and drink, tourism, renewable energy and rural services. It is recognised as a powerful and respected programme that inspires businesses across rural Scotland. In terms of the growth and continued success of RLP candidates, after completing the course, alumni are regularly offered further opportunities to build on their Rural Leadership Experience. This includes local forums, podcasts, audiences with inspirational rural business people and global networking experiences with other rural leaders, including the OECD in Paris. This ongoing commitment is helping to cement the achievements of Scotland's rural leaders, helping to increase knowledge, learning, communication and confidence. Success can be clearly seen on the faces of those who have completed the Leadership Course, made connections, built their own confidence, strengthened their businesses and grown personally and professionally in their contribution to a strong and vibrant rural economy and society. This would not have been possible without the efforts and commitment of Julian Pace to Rural Leaders. and the opportunities he has created for rural people to achieve their own success.
Find out more about the finalists for the Helping it Happen Awards 2023