We are delighted to announce the appointment of Marc Cairns as a Trustee of Architects Benevolent Society.
Marc is Associate Director of Place, Housing & Economic Investment at Scottish Futures Trust (SFT). With over 15 years of experience in placemaking, regeneration, and community-led development, he brings a deep commitment to creating places that support thriving, resilient communities. Before joining SFT, he co-founded and served as Director of Place at New Practice (now part of Civic), helping to grow it into a nationally recognised practice for creative placemaking, public realm design, and meaningful community engagement. His experience spans strategic direction, governance, and navigating complex organisational change – skills he will bring to great effect at board level.
But Marc’s connection to ABS goes far beyond his professional credentials. When his team experienced bereavement, ABS was there – providing practical and emotional support at one of the hardest moments. That experience shaped his commitment to ABS, and he has been a passionate advocate ever since, becoming an Ambassador. As a regular participant in the ABS Chicken Run, Marc has twice raised the highest individual funds – another testament to his dedication to the cause.
Marc’s appointment strengthens the Board with a voice that is at once strategically experienced and personally invested – someone who knows, firsthand, what ABS means to the people it serves.
“ABS does remarkable work supporting people across the profession at moments when support matters most. Having seen that impact firsthand, I’m proud to join the Board and help strengthen the Society’s work.” – Marc Cairns
