Personal Statement: 

My name is Imogen Beattie and I live in Glasgow. I joined the Scottish Liberal Democrats in 2015 and have been very active since then as a campaigner - canvassing, delivering leaflets, manning street stalls, serving on campaign committees and as an election agent. I have been on my local party executive committee in South Lanarkshire all that time too, with 9 years as treasurer of the local party. I am also on the executive committee of Liberal Voice for Women, a nationwide Liberal Democrat women’s group.
 I am semi-retired and was running my own business until recently. I am a charity trustee and am active in my local community. I also have considerable experience as an advocate and carer for my daughter who is a young adult with a learning disability and medical issues.
 I am standing as Scottish Representative for Federal Council as I wish to contribute to the party nationally. I think it is important to make a stand for liberal values, and against nationalism and populism. I am committed to representing and promoting liberal values, and to using my skills to achieve this.
 I am also committed to genuine equality and diversity of thought. A range of voices and viewpoints in the party need to be welcomed, aired and considered.
 Councillor Robert Brown, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, South Lanarkshire Council writes:-
 “I have known Imogen for a long time as a committed member of Rutherglen Constituency Party. Her skills and liberal values will make her an excellent member of the Federal Council.”
 Please vote to elect me as a Scottish Representative for Federal Council.
 I can be contacted on imogenbeattie@pobox.com
 
What skills/experience will you bring to the role?

A fresh eye and a “grassroots member” perspective, as a new member of Federal Council.
 Financial and business skills from my professional background as a chartered accountant, latterly running my own business.
 The ability to scrutinise and challenge decisions, honed as a current and past Board member of charities.
 I am not afraid to ask questions, including questions that challenge.
 I am persistent and follow through.
 I am conscientious.
 I am analytical and good with detail.
 
What do you hope to achieve if elected?

I aim to provide a fresh eye from a member who has mostly been active at the grassroots, having been very active in the party locally rather than nationally. 
I will work with the Scottish party, as communication between it and the Federal party is important.
 I will challenge the Federal Board to ensure it is professional, thinks ahead and accepts the party’s legal responsibilities.
 I will seek to improve communication between the leadership and members of the party, to ensure that the Federal Board is transparent and accountable.
 I will be honest, and aim to be constructive and effective in scrutiny and challenge of the Federal Board. 
I will attend the Federal Council meetings.
 I will support the view that more voices across the membership need to be heard and that diversity of thought, not just one point of view, should be welcomed and encouraged.