The Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow has appointed John Watson as a non-executive director as it bids to secure funding for its ambitious £200m expansion plans.

Watson is an Operating Principal for Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), working with a number of the fund’s investments and is CEO of Crosswind Developments Ltd, which is working to develop a ‘digital quarter’ at Edinburgh Airport.

Prior to joining GIP, he was Managing Director of Lloyds Banking Group’s $50bn SME Lending portfolio during the banking liquidity crisis. He was also a founding board director of the Business Growth Fund plc.

With over 25 years of experience, a Chartered Accountant, he has a BEng Mechanical Design Engineering and an MSc IT from University of Glasgow.

Watson is a trustee of Entrepreneurial Scotland Foundation, a non-executive director of the Institute of Directors and a member of the ICAS Governing Council.

Announcing his appointment, Will Whitehorn, Chairman of the SEC said: “We are delighted that John has accepted a place on the Board of SEC at such an exciting time for the business. John brings with him a wealth of experience across the financial markets and infrastructure investment which will be invaluable as we look to secure funding for a major expansion of our facilities with the vision to create a unique global event campus. John’s in-depth knowledge will be a huge asset to the Board and we look forward to working with him as we welcome him on to our Campus.”

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Watson said: “The SEC is a world-renowned and important facility for both Glasgow and Scotland generating significant economic benefit. I’m delighted to be joining such a brilliant team with a great track record of delivery and I look forward to working with them to further grow their success.”