Susie Finlayson, a longtime member from Roxburghshire, has been named the 22nd National President of the Scottish Women’s Institutes (SWI), becoming the first working National President in the organisation’s near 110-year history. Announced at the SWI Annual General Meeting on 16 May, the appointment marks a significant milestone for one of Scotland’s historic women’s organisations, as it continues a major programme of modernisation and renewal that has transformed the organisation over the last three years.

A passionate advocate for traditional skills and community learning, Susie runs a business delivering embroidery workshops across Scotland, a role that closely reflects the SWI’s enduring ethos: if you know a good thing, pass it on. Having served as National Vice President from 2023 to 2026, she now steps into the national role at a pivotal moment for the organisation. Alongside welcoming a new board of trustees following the close of the latest Triennium, the SWI is continuing to evolve its governance, membership experience and public profile while building on the momentum of recent years.

Speaking about her appointment, Susie Finlayson said: “Being National President is more than just a title; it’s an opportunity to help the SWI, meet members from across Scotland and champion our longstanding organisation. I hope that during my time as National President I can help grow the organisation, prepare it for the future and make it the best it can possibly be for our members.”

SWI Chief Executive Diane Cooper welcomed the appointment, highlighting the value of Susie’s experience as a working woman and business owner. “As our first working National President, Susie brings a fresh perspective while remaining deeply connected to the values and traditions of the SWI,” she said. “Over the last three years, the organisation has undergone significant change and modernisation. Susie’s leadership, alongside our new board of trustees, will help us continue that momentum and take the SWI to new heights.”

Representing around 8,700 members across Scotland, from Orkney and Shetland to the Borders, the SWI has achieved its first membership growth since the 1950s, increasing membership by 3%, while also securing new partnerships, launching a new website, streamlining governance structures and successfully transitioning to SCIO status. The organisation has also introduced new national events, including the upcoming Members’ Gathering in Dundee, which has quickly sold out and will welcome more than 300 members from across the country. Together, these changes have helped strengthen and modernise the organisation for the future while remaining true to its founding values. Four board members stepped down at the AGM, including outgoing National President Mary Burney, who led the organisation from 2023 to 2026 after previously serving as National Vice President. The SWI paid tribute to Mary and the departing trustees for their dedication, leadership and commitment during a transformative period for the organisation.

As National President, Susie will represent the SWI across Scotland, champion its members nationally and help shape the next phase of the organisation’s future. Her appointment reflects the increasingly modern, inclusive and forward-looking direction of the SWI. Next year, the SWI will celebrate its 110th anniversary, marking more than a century of empowering women, supporting communities and preserving skills across Scotland. Under Susie Finlayson’s leadership, the organisation aims to honour that legacy while continuing to evolve for the women of today and tomorrow.

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