The former deputy editor of both The Herald and The Evening Times in the city, Harkness is due to join Glasgow 2014 on December 5 from the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI), where she has been director of policy and research since September 2009. 

A central element of her new role will be to drive forward the media engagement strategy for the Games as well as profile-raising activity across Scotland, the UK and internationally in advance of Glasgow 2014.

Harkness will also provide strategic advice to senior management and board members on media activity, to ensure the Games enjoy a significant amount of coverage and reach as many people as possible to create a tangible air of excitement around this global sporting event, Glasgow officials said. 

Harkess joined the Herald and Times group from the Scottish Daily Mail as deputy editor of The Evening Times in December 1999.

She became deputy editor of The Herald in 2006 before joining SCDI, Scotland's leading independent economic development network.

"Through Glasgow 2014, Scotland has a fantastic opportunity, not just to showcase our world-class credentials in global event delivery, but also to inspire individuals, businesses and our nation to be more confident in our ability to compete," said Harkness.

"I look forward to being part of a team committed to delivering a successful and dynamic Commonwealth Games experience of lasting positive impact and of which our nation can be proud."

Glasgow 2014's director of communications and marketing, Gordon Arthur, welcomed the appointment.

 "We are delighted to have someone of Janette's calibre join the team," he said.

"She brings a deep knowledge of Scotland's media, business and civic landscape and a real passion for Glasgow and the Games.

"With a little under three years to go, we look forward to the contribution she will make to the organisation as we enter this crucial period for Glasgow 2014.

"Janette will build on the work already done to raise awareness of the Games, their impact and the legacy they will leave Glasgow and Scotland."

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