Witherby Publishing Group’s Commercial Director and Co-owner, Kat (Katrina) Heathcote, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for services to the People of Scotland.
Originally from a low income family in South Wales, Kat benefitted enormously from the open access to a musical education that Mid Glamorgan offered in the 1970s. Citing it as an enabler to future success through the confidence and discipline it inspired, it has become a fundamental driver in her belief that universal access to arts, sports and other areas where excellence can provide more opportunity is key.
After a career that started in London, she effectively moved to Scotland in 1997, commuting between Cumbria and Edinburgh. In Cumbria she found time to sit on the Board of a Housing Association and to undertake pastoral work with young offenders - both way more satisfying than the day job!
In 2004 she met her now Husband, Capt. Iain Macneil MNM,DUNIV and joined him in his business, Seamanship International, which went on to become Witherby Publishing Group after making an acquisition.
In 2011, and after discussion with fellow Directors on the principles for which they wished to be known, Kat co-founded the profit funded Witherbys Charitable Trust and has served as a trustee ever since. To date, the Trust has donated over £1.8 million to projects across Scotland, with a focus on supporting young people from disadvantaged or rural backgrounds, primarily providing equal access to the arts, sport and science.
Under Kat’s leadership, the Trust has also supported major cultural organisations including the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, St Mary’s Music School, Scottish Opera, the Benedetti Foundation, Live Music Now Scotland and the Nevis Ensemble. In sports many of the awards have been given to individuals, enabling them to participate at national and international level. A longtime supporter of Scottish Cricket (and a qualified umpire and scorer) she is a particular champion of the women's game. She worked hard to get them access to tournaments and games in the early years and is delighted to now see their success on the international stage.
As a passionate advocate for education, Kat has driven support for schools and youth-focused charities. In addition, and in recognition of the specific needs of Highland and remote island communities, she and Iain, who hails from the Island of Barra, set up a significant long term support package to the University of Highlands and Islands, which is used for scholarships, bursaries and the promotion of the opportunities the UHI presents.
Beyond her charitable work, Kat plays an influential role in Scotland’s cultural and maritime sectors. She is a current member of the board of the RSNO and has previously served on the boards of St Mary’s Music School, Cricket Scotland and the Scottish Maritime Cluster. As Co-owner of Witherby Publishing Group, one of Scotland’s most historic and successful publishing companies, Kat helps shape the company’s strategic and commercial direction. Celebrating its 285th anniversary in 2025, Witherbys is a global leader in maritime guidance and technical standards. Based in Livingston, it distributes to over 110 countries and works closely with international industry bodies to promote safety, regulation and best practice across the shipping sector.
“I am honoured and humbled to receive this recognition,” said Kat Heathcote. “It reflects the hard work and dedication of so many inspiring individuals and organisations I’ve had the privilege to support. My passion lies in helping individuals realise their potential and supporting them on that journey. Championing youth across Scotland, particularly in the areas of arts, sport and education, has been a central focus.”
The entire Witherbys team congratulates Kat on this well-earned honour and celebrates the incredible legacy she continues to build in business, community and culture.
Learn more about the Witherbys Charitable Trust’s work at: https://wpgtrust.com/case-studies