The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has appointed Chris Edmonds as chair of the board, following eight years as a board Member, as the organisation builds on a landmark year of growth and charitable impact.

The appointment follows the success of the 2025 show and 75th year celebrations, which enabled a record £1.5 million charitable donation, underlining the Tattoo’s continued commitment to supporting the armed forces and arts communities.

Edmonds succeeds Bill Morris LVO, who will step down after 12 years on the board following this year’s event, during which time he oversaw a period of sustained growth, strategic development and resilience, including the organisation’s recovery after the pandemic.

Bringing extensive senior leadership and governance experience from across the live events and entertainment sector, including serving as chair of the Ticketmaster board, Edmonds will support the organisation in delivering the Tattoo’s long-term strategy to create the world’s greatest immersive events.

Edmonds said: “After more than 35 years in the UK live events sector, and having supported The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the past eight years, I am delighted and honoured to take on the role of chair of this unique organisation. It delivers one of the world’s highest-profile events and makes a huge difference to people’s lives through its charitable donations.”

Morris said: “I’ve been fortunate in my career to be involved in some of the biggest events in the world, but quite honestly, chairing The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been a pinnacle. It has been one of the most rewarding roles I’ve ever undertaken.

“This is a truly special organisation. Its contribution to Edinburgh, Scotland, the UK and the wider world is unlike anything else I’ve experienced. The combination of a world-class event company and a charity with real purpose creates something genuinely unique.

“Chris is the ideal next chair for the Tattoo. I’ve known him for nearly 30 years, and he is a major figure in UK entertainment. After eight years on the board, his passion is clear making this a natural and gratifying transition.”

Image: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo