SURF’s long-standing Policy Manager, Derek Rankine, departs SURF later this week after two successful decades with the organisation.

Derek joined SURF in 2005 after graduating from the University of Glasgow with a degree in politics. Since 2015, Derek has held the role of Policy Manager, and has frequently engaged with SURF member bodies from all sectors to develop appropriate policy responses for the organisation. During his time with SURF, Derek has also represented the organisation on a wide range of partnership projects, governmental advisory groups, funding panels and research initiatives, as well as managing our Alliance for Action programme.

Derek will take up post next week as Head of Policy and Strategy at the Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS). BEFS is a charity and membership network dedicated to the protection and improvement of existing buildings, infrastructure, public spaces and designed landscapes in Scotland’s villages, towns and cities.

Euan and Emma, as well as the wider staff team and Board, would like to take this opportunity to thank Derek for his vast contribution to SURF’s work over the years. His hard working ethos, dedication and attention to detail have always made him an integral part of SURF’s success, and he has played a huge part in SURF’s story over the last 20 years. He will be greatly missed by the SURF team who wish him every success in his new adventure, and look forward to continuing to liaise with him in his new role at BEFS – an active SURF member – on shared interests around heritage, regeneration and improving Scotland’s places. He will certainly not be a stranger.

Derek said: “SURF has been a huge part of my life, and it has been an immense privilege to have worked for an important charity that is making a real difference in helping the many people and organisations working hard to improve communities in need across Scotland. I’ve learned a great deal about the context, opportunities and challenges for all sorts of places that are dealing with social and economic problems. I’m keenly aware SURF has made a positive difference in building a more supportive policy environment for enhanced community empowerment and a longer-term, more collaborative approach to place-based regeneration.”

“After 20 years, it feels like the right time for a change and a new challenge, although I will leave SURF with a heavy heart. I am grateful to the many colleagues, Trustees, members, funders and partners, past and present, that have supported me and SURF over the period. Knowing Euan, Emma and the rest of the staff team and Board as I do, I have complete confidence the organisation will continue to thrive in 2025 and beyond, and I am excited about following SURF’s future activities from a new perspective.”

Whilst Derek is irreplaceable, this Spring SURF intends to launch a recruitment process for a successor. Full details will be shared through our website and bulletin.