Catriona Shearer – A Distinguished Scottish Broadcaster, Communications Leader and Influential Media Voice

Catriona Shearer is a name that resonates strongly within Scottish broadcasting and the wider UK media landscape. Known for her extensive work as a presenter on BBC Scotland’s flagship news programme Reporting Scotland, Catriona Shearer has built a distinguished career grounded in journalism, storytelling, and public communication. Over the past two decades, she has evolved from a dynamic on-air voice into a highly respected senior communications professional, bringing her expertise to major organisations in the corporate and public affairs sectors.

Throughout her journey, Catriona Shearer has mastered diverse roles—from journalist and producer to television presenter, event host, columnist, and now senior corporate affairs manager. Her versatility, professionalism, and commitment to impactful communication have made her a respected figure in Scotland and beyond.

Early Life and Education of Catriona Shearer

Born in 1981 in Scotland, Catriona Shearer grew up with a passion for media, news and storytelling. Her family background fostered a supportive environment, and she remains closely connected to her roots. She is the daughter of Willie Shearer, a detail that highlights the importance of family throughout her life.

Catriona’s academic foundation was set at Edinburgh Napier University, where she completed a BA (Hons) in Journalism from 1999 to 2003. Her education prepared her not only with core journalistic skills but also with the confidence to enter the fast-paced world of broadcasting.

The Beginning of a Prominent Journalism Career

BBC Radio 5 Live – The First Major Break

Shortly after graduating, Catriona Shearer moved to London to take up a coveted role with BBC Radio 5 Live. Her early work included producing and contributing to well-known programmes such as Breakfast, Drive, Midday News, and the Weekend Breakfast Show. Her love of music also led her to contribute to Radio 1’s specialist late-night programmes.

These experiences showcased her natural ability to handle live broadcasting, editorial decision-making, and on-the-spot news analysis—skills that later defined her success on television.

BBC Radio Wales – Expanding Creative Horizons

Her next move was to BBC Radio Wales in Cardiff, where she worked as a producer across a variety of entertainment, lifestyle and music programmes. She also presented the popular sports programme Sportstime on Saturday afternoons, showing her range as a broadcaster.

Rise to National Recognition at BBC Scotland

The Transition to On-Screen Broadcasting

Catriona’s first on-screen presenting role came when she joined BBC Scotland’s ‘News Weekly’, an online video podcast. This marked the beginning of her television career and her growing presence within Scottish households.

In the Glasgow newsroom, she worked in several positions including:

• Newsdrive radio producer

• Scotland Live studio producer

• Travel reporter on Good Morning Scotland

• Presenter of the quiz series Soundbiters

Reporting Scotland – Becoming a Familiar Face

Catriona became widely recognised as one of the key presenters on BBC Scotland’s Reporting Scotland. Her professionalism, clarity, and warm on-screen presence quickly made her a favourite among viewers. She also made appearances on BBC Breakfast, strengthening her national profile.

Her time at BBC Scotland spanned 16 years, during which she worked as:

• Senior Broadcast Journalist

• Lead Presenter for BBC News and BBC Scotland

• Trusted face for major news bulletins and breaking stories

Her contributions extended into entertainment as well, with appearances on WonderBall, Only an Excuse, and the fan-favourite radio show Off the Ball.

Personal Life – Catriona Shearer Age, Husband, Children and Family

Catriona Shearer Age

Catriona Shearer was born in 1981, making her 44 years old in 2025.

Catriona Shearer Husband – David Balfour

Catriona Shearer is married to David Balfour, an engineer. Their marriage marked a new chapter in her personal life, and she is sometimes referred to as Catriona Balfour in non-broadcasting contexts.

Wedding Details

The couple married in 2014 at Edinburgh Castle, a venue symbolic of Scotland’s rich heritage. The wedding was intimate, elegant and celebrated by family, friends, and colleagues from the media world.

Catriona Shearer Children

Catriona and David Balfour are parents to two daughters:

• Biba Bluebell Balfour

• Remi Bluebell Balfour

Her family life remains private, yet she frequently expresses the importance of motherhood and balance in her professional journey.

Expanding Beyond Broadcasting – Corporate and Strategic Communications

After leaving BBC News in 2021, Catriona Shearer transitioned seamlessly into the corporate communications sector.

British Coffee Association

From 2021 to 2022, she served as Communications and Public Affairs Manager, handling strategic communication, media relations and public affairs on a national scale.

ScottishPower – Senior Corporate Affairs Manager

Since June 2022, Catriona Shearer has worked as Senior Corporate Affairs Manager at ScottishPower. Her role involves:

• Crisis and reputation management

• Strategic communication planning

• Public and media relations

• Stakeholder engagement

• Leadership and team collaboration

Her background in journalism makes her an invaluable asset in delivering clear, effective and high-impact communication in a high-pressure environment.

Continuing Education – LSE

Reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning, she completed a specialised course in Strategic Communications in Society, Business and Corporate Communications at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in 2024.

Catriona Shearer as Host, Facilitator and Public Speaker

Alongside her broadcast career, Catriona Shearer gained a reputation as a dynamic event host, known for her sharp wit, humour and audience engagement skills. Event organisers consistently praised her for professionalism and her ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Quick Info

Legacy and Influence of Catriona Shearer

Catriona Shearer’s career reflects dedication, adaptability, and excellence across journalism and communications. From her early radio work to her status as a trusted BBC presenter, and later as a corporate communications leader, she has continuously demonstrated a rare blend of creativity, intelligence and composure.

Her journey inspires aspiring broadcasters, journalists, and communications professionals across the UK, proving that skill, professionalism and passion can build a remarkable and impactful career.

FAQs

1. Who is Catriona Shearer?

Catriona Shearer is a Scottish broadcast journalist, former BBC Scotland news presenter, and an accomplished communications professional. She is best known for her long career on Reporting Scotland and her work as a senior corporate affairs leader in major organisations.

2. How old is Catriona Shearer?

Catriona Shearer was born in 1981, making her 44 years old as of 2025.

3. Who is Catriona Shearer’s husband?

She is married to David Balfour, an engineer. After marriage, she is also sometimes referred to as Catriona Balfour.

4. Does Catriona Shearer have children?

Yes. Catriona Shearer has two daughters, named:

• Biba Bluebell Balfour

• Remi Bluebell

5. What is Catriona Shearer doing now?

After leaving the BBC, Catriona Shearer moved into corporate communications. She currently works as a Senior Corporate Affairs Manager at ScottishPower and previously served as Communications and Public Affairs Manager at the British Coffee Association. She also completed strategic communications training at LSE.

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