Big Hearts Community Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Mackay as our new Project Lead – Friday Night Lights.
As Heart of Midlothian FC’s all-time record appearance holder, Gary is a true legend at Tynecastle Park and returns to Gorgie in a new role, off the pitch! He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience to our charity’s Delivery Team and will play a key part in supporting children and young people in the local community.
Gary has been a great supporter of Big Hearts’ work for many years and his appointment marks an exciting chapter, as we continue to grow our impact across Edinburgh and beyond. With extensive experience in football and community engagement, he will be instrumental in working alongside our partners Police Scotland, Edinburgh Leisure and our local Community Sports Hubs to lead our Friday Night Lights project.
Gary was appointed after a competitive recruitment process, and as always we want to sincerely thank those who expressed an interest in the role.
Big Hearts’ Chief Executive, Craig Wilson said: “We are thrilled to welcome Gary as a new Project Lead at Big Hearts. He brings invaluable experience working with young people in a number of settings and that alongside his love for and standing within our football club, makes him a perfect candidate for this role.
We’re confident his leadership will help grow this project and provide a safe, supportive environment for those who need it most.
Gary has always been a big supporter of Big Hearts and we look forward to working with him on a more regular basis.”
Friday Night Lights was launched in May 2024 and supports young people aged 13-18, who benefit from a safe space to go on a Friday evening to make positive social connections, providing free access to a range of activities and opportunities.
Gary Mackay, Project Lead said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be working with Big Hearts, in a role that combines my two greatest passions: helping young people and of course Heart of Midlothian!
Having worked with young people for over 15 years, both professionally and as a volunteer, I look forward to adding my skills to complement those of the dedicated team already supporting the young people attending Friday Night Lights.”
– July 2025
