Catriona Shearer: From Trusted BBC News Presenter to Influential Communications Leader
Catriona Shearer is a name that carries authority, trust, and professionalism across Scottish broadcasting and the wider UK communications landscape. Best known for her long-standing role as a presenter on BBC Scotland’s flagship news programme Reporting Scotland, she built a reputation as a calm, credible, and engaging journalist. Over time, she successfully transitioned from frontline broadcasting into senior corporate and public affairs roles, demonstrating adaptability and strategic insight.
Her career spans radio, television, live events, and corporate communications, making her a standout example of how journalistic expertise can translate into leadership beyond the newsroom.
Early Life and Background of Catriona Shearer
Born in 1981 in Scotland, Catriona Shearer grew up with a strong connection to her roots and a clear interest in media and storytelling. Family has always played an important role in her life, and she is known to be the daughter of Willie Shearer, a detail that underlines the personal foundations behind her professional success.
From an early age, she showed curiosity about current affairs, communication, and public life. These interests would later shape her academic and career choices, guiding her towards journalism and broadcasting.
Education and Academic Foundation
Journalism Training at University
Catriona Shearer completed her BA (Hons) in Journalism at Edinburgh Napier University between 1999 and 2003. Her studies equipped her with essential skills in news writing, media ethics, production, and broadcasting techniques.
This academic grounding provided the confidence and competence required to enter the competitive world of national media. It also helped shape her professional discipline, clarity of expression, and ethical approach to communication.
Early Career in Radio Broadcasting
BBC Radio 5 Live: First Major Step
After graduating, Catriona Shearer moved to London to begin her professional career with BBC Radio 5 Live. Here, she worked as a journalist and producer on major national programmes, including breakfast and drive-time shows.
This period was crucial in developing her ability to work under pressure, manage live broadcasts, and make fast editorial decisions. Her exposure to national news coverage sharpened her instincts and prepared her for future on-screen roles.
BBC Radio Wales: Broadening Experience
She later joined BBC Radio Wales, where she expanded her range by producing and presenting entertainment, lifestyle, and music programmes. She also presented a popular Saturday sports show, demonstrating versatility and ease across different formats.
This stage of her career helped her become a well-rounded broadcaster, comfortable with both serious journalism and lighter programming.
Rise at BBC Scotland
Transition to Television
Catriona Shearer returned to Scotland to join BBC Scotland, marking the beginning of her television career. Her first on-screen presenting role came with an online news podcast, which allowed her to develop a confident screen presence while maintaining journalistic integrity.
Within the BBC Scotland newsroom, she worked in several key roles, including radio production, studio production, travel reporting, and quiz presenting. Each position added depth to her experience and visibility.
Catriona Shearer and Reporting Scotland
Becoming a Familiar Face
Catriona Shearer became widely recognised through her work on Reporting Scotland, where she served for more than 16 years. As a senior broadcast journalist and presenter, she delivered national news to audiences across Scotland with clarity and composure.
Her on-screen style was marked by authority balanced with approachability. Viewers came to trust her during major news events, political developments, and breaking stories. She also appeared on national programmes such as BBC Breakfast, further strengthening her profile.
Entertainment and Radio Appearances
Alongside hard news, she participated in entertainment and sports-related programmes, including quiz shows and radio discussions. These appearances highlighted her warmth, humour, and ability to connect with audiences beyond traditional news formats.
Catriona Shearer Age and Personal Life
Catriona Shearer Age
Born in October 1981, Catriona Shearer will be 45 in 2026, reflecting a career that spans more than two decades across journalism and communications.
Catriona Shearer Husband and Marriage
She is married to David Balfour, an engineer. The couple married in 2014 in a private ceremony held at Edinburgh Castle, a venue that reflects Scotland’s heritage and significance.
After marriage, she is sometimes known as Catriona Balfour, particularly in non-broadcasting or corporate contexts. This has occasionally led to public confusion, but both names refer to the same individual.
Family and Children
Catriona Shearer and her husband are parents to two daughters. She keeps her family life largely private, choosing to maintain a clear boundary between her professional public role and her personal responsibilities as a mother.
Life After the BBC
Transition from Journalism
In 2021, Catriona Shearer made the decision to leave BBC News after a long and successful broadcasting career. Rather than stepping away from communication altogether, she redirected her expertise into strategic and corporate communications.
This move reflected a growing trend among experienced journalists who apply their skills to public affairs, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement.
Corporate and Public Affairs Career
British Coffee Association
Following her departure from the BBC, she joined the British Coffee Association as Communications and Public Affairs Manager. In this role, she handled national media relations, public messaging, and stakeholder communications within a high-profile industry sector.
Her journalism background proved invaluable in managing complex narratives and maintaining clarity during public discussions.
Senior Role at ScottishPower
Since 2022, Catriona Shearer has worked as Senior Corporate Affairs Manager at ScottishPower. Her responsibilities include crisis communication, strategic planning, public engagement, and reputation management within a major UK energy organisation.
This role places her at the intersection of media, policy, and public interest, where her experience and credibility are essential assets.
Continued Professional Development
In 2024, she completed advanced training in strategic communications at the London School of Economics. This further strengthened her expertise in corporate affairs, public trust, and modern communication strategy, reinforcing her commitment to lifelong learning.
Event Hosting and Public Speaking
Beyond journalism and corporate roles, Catriona Shearer is also known as an accomplished event host and facilitator. She regularly moderates discussions, hosts conferences, and engages live audiences with confidence and professionalism. Her ability to communicate clearly and connect with diverse groups has earned her respect across sectors.
Skills, Reputation, and Influence
Catriona Shearer is widely respected for her:
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Clear and authoritative communication style
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Strong ethical foundation in journalism
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Ability to manage high-pressure situations
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Strategic thinking in corporate affairs
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Adaptability across media and leadership roles
Her career demonstrates how trust built in public broadcasting can translate into influence and effectiveness in senior communications positions.
Conclusion
The professional journey of Catriona Shearer reflects dedication, adaptability, and excellence. From her early days in radio to becoming a trusted BBC presenter, and later a senior figure in corporate communications, she has consistently shown the value of strong, ethical communication.
Whether recognised as Catriona Shearer or Catriona Balfour, her influence continues to shape how organisations communicate with the public. Her career serves as inspiration for aspiring journalists and communications professionals across the UK, proving that skill, integrity, and commitment can build a lasting and respected professional legacy.
FAQs
1. Who is Catriona Shearer?
Catriona Shearer is a Scottish broadcast journalist and communications professional. She is best known for her long career as a presenter on BBC Scotland’s national news programme Reporting Scotland and later moved into senior corporate and public affairs roles within major UK organisations.
2. How old is Catriona Shearer?
Catriona Shearer was born in October 1981. She is 44 years old and will turn 45 in October 2026.
3. Is Catriona Shearer married?
Yes, Catriona Shearer is married to David Balfour, an engineer. The couple married in 2014 in Scotland.
4. Why is she sometimes known as Catriona Balfour?
After her marriage, Catriona Shearer is sometimes referred to as Catriona Balfour, particularly in non-broadcasting or corporate contexts. Both names refer to the same person.
