Chief Executive Officer, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Odgers partnered with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to identify a top-tier CEO, with Jason Barrett, stepping up in November 2023 from his previous role of Chief Operating Officer within the organisation. 

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a globally-recognised event series dating back to 1950 performed each year by a range of military bands. 

As you were previously COO at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, what was particularly attractive about moving into the CEO role? 

Ultimately, it was the higher responsibility of this esteemed institution that appealed to me. I had previous experience as a chief executive, so in some ways, it felt natural. 

This position prepared me to transition into the Chief Executive role. Leading organisations here posed a new challenge that inspired me to take on more responsibility. 

What are your ambitions for the role? 

It's an incredibly interesting time for the Tattoo, and we've had a strategy in place for several years. What excites me most is the opportunity to reflect on the Tattoo's 75-year history as an esteemed and iconic Scottish institution, and to ask ourselves, "What more can we achieve?" 

For 75 years, we've performed in Edinburgh, on the Esplanade at Edinburgh Castle. Now, we're exploring possibilities beyond our traditional venue to establish it as a consistent, programmable, and commercially viable event. We're investigating ways to diversify, considering different versions of the Tattoo or similar events such as a smaller-scale Tattoo, one inside a theatre, or even a musical version. These ideas are thrilling and inspiring. 

Aside from innovating the Tattoo itself, our ambitions also centre around leveraging our event management expertise. We run a dynamic, challenging, large-scale event exceptionally well, often praised by the City of Edinburgh and the Scottish Government. The next logical step is to ask, "What else can we do as a production company?" Could we manage other events in Edinburgh, the wider UK, or internationally? 

How was your journey with Odgers? 

My recruitment process was exceptionally professional, and I had been encouraged to apply due to my background which is fairly unique. 

Being an American who has visited Scotland for 28 years, with my wife hailing from Linlithgow, I have a unique perspective. I've also served in the US military and alongside British forces, which is quite an unusual experience. After leaving the military, I enjoyed a successful commercial career, managing businesses in the hospitality industry with an entrepreneurial spirit. 

When I was encouraged to apply for the CEO position, I initially thought I was a long shot and considered it a ‘why not’ opportunity. However, my recruitment process with Odgers was straightforward and in my initial conversation with Peter, he recognised my competitive CV and my potential as an interesting candidate. I'm thrilled with how things turned out. 

We continue to use Odgers for our senior-level recruitment needs, as they provide excellent service and valuable advice. Their extensive industry experience and awareness have been incredibly beneficial to us. 

Success in Leadership 

Watch our interview with Jason as he outlines how his leadership can activate company strategy, what effective execution looks like, and discover his three key elements to successful leadership. 

Watch our interview with Jason Barrett

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