Founding partner of Edinburgh-based Charlotte Street Partners to chair Street Soccer Scotland

Malcolm Robertson, founding partner of Edinburgh-based strategic consultancy Charlotte Street Partners, has been appointed as the new chairman of social enterprise Street Soccer Scotland.

Street Soccer Scotland is a social enterprise and charity which uses the power of football to create positive change, by providing purpose, opportunity and connection for adults and young people experiencing social exclusion.

Robertson, who is currently chair of Unicef UK’s Scotland advisory board and a former communications officer at airport operator BAA, will bring more than 20 years of experience in strategic leadership to the football charity. He is joined on the board by Sabina Kadic-Mackenzie and Jamie McCall. Both have been involved with Street Soccer Scotland for a number of years in advisory roles.

Founded in 2009 by David Duke, Street Soccer Scotland is a social enterprise and charity which uses “the power of football to create positive change”.

Robertson said: “Every conversation I have with David Duke is an inspiring one. In creating Street Soccer, he put his own deeply personal experiences to work, helping countless people meet and overcome often complex challenges.

“I am immensely proud to be joining Street Soccer at such an important time, when the power of sport to change people’s lives for the better is needed more than ever.”

Duke said: “Ever since we kicked off in 2009, our organisation has benefited from the great support and expertise of volunteer trustees and board members.

“As we approach our 12th year of service, we are delighted to welcome Malcolm as our chair – as well as Sabina and Jamie – to support our vision and growth, ensuring that we can support more people in our communities.

“They each bring a wealth of experience, skill and leadership and I believe with their partnership we will accelerate Street Soccer’s vision together as one.”

Kadic-Mackenzie, described as an “experienced third-sector communicator and partner” at Charlotte Street Partners, said: “It is an understatement to say that Street Soccer Scotland transforms lives. I’ve seen it first-hand over the years, having spent time with their players and coaches.

“Their commitment to offering purpose, relationships and hope is so important, now more than ever.”

McCall added: “The inspiration of sport, and its ability to transform lives for the better should never be limited to any one group or community, we must always prioritise its power for those who need it most.”

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