Spectacular Scottish tourist attraction set in Perthshire forest seeks ‘chief enchantment officer’

The Enchanted Forest Community Trust said the move followed the imminent departure of Nela Popovic, who has been the charity’s chief executive officer for the past five years.

The “carefully planned” leadership transition has triggered the search for a new chief enchantment officer - the more formal chief executive title will also still apply - ahead of the award-winning show’s 25th anniversary in 2026.

Popovic will continue to support the charity during the transition period, remaining in post until the end of March, ensuring continuity as the trust prepares for its next chapter. During her tenure, she is said to have been a “steady and visionary force” through some of the most pivotal moments in the Enchanted Forest’s history. The show has been running at Faskally Wood, Pitlochry since 2002, welcoming some 950,000 visitors since it first began and bringing in more than £10 million to the local economy every year.

A key focal focus for Popovic has been deepening the relationship with the local Pitlochry community, culminating in the Celebrating Thriving Communities Award win at the 2024 Visit Scotland Scottish Thistle Regional Awards. During this time, the Enchanted Forest Community Fund also reached record levels of giving, extending much needed support to charities and community interest companies operating in Highland Perthshire.

The trust board has now begun the search for an “inspiring” new boss who will be able to “combine strategic acumen with a magical touch”, leading one of Scotland’s top attractions into its next quarter century.

Popovic said: “Leading The Enchanted Forest has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Together with an extraordinary team, board of trustees and creative partners, we have navigated challenges, transformation and growth while staying true to the values that make this charity, and the Enchanted Forest event, so special.

“As I step aside, I do so with immense pride in what we have achieved and have complete confidence in the trust’s future. The Enchanted Forest, which will celebrate 25 years in 2026 and welcome its millionth visitor, is in a strong position to continue to delight audiences and deliver meaningful impact for the Highland Perthshire community.”

Karen Bothwell, chair of the Enchanted Forest Community Trust, said: “Nela’s leadership over the past five years has been exceptional. She has guided the charity through periods of significant change with clarity, resilience and creativity.

“She leaves the Enchanted Forest stronger, more sustainable, and even more rooted in the community it calls home. As we begin our search for our next chief executive officer, we are looking forward to welcoming a new leader who can bring both the enchantment to this role as well as build upon Nela’s strong legacy to help shape the next chapter of our story.”

Faskally was purchased by the Forestry Commission in 1953. It covers 365 hectares and is divided in two by the old and new A9. The area where the Enchanted Forest takes place is about 66 hectares in size.