However, critics argue that a woman would be better suited to the job.
Retired tennis star Martina Navratilova commented on the news of his appointment, calling it “f**king ridiculous” on her Twitter account. “Have we ever tried to explain to men how to shave or how to take care of their prostate or anything else? This is absurd,” he wrote in a separate tweet.
Lawyer Charlotte Proudman also questioned why a man was appointed to the role.
“I remember at school, girls used sanitary napkins because tampons weren’t affordable,” she tweeted. “What’s Jason Grant’s experience with this? I’m all for supporting men – but let’s let women lead our experiences.”
Grant’s role is the first of its kind in Scotland.
“He will co-ordinate and streamline the approach to ‘Period Dignity’ across the region by working directly with colleges and local authorities,” Grainger PR said in a press release announcing the appointment, which was made by a working group of .
“Jason will lead a regional campaign in schools, colleges and wider communities, raising awareness and understanding of the new law and ensuring Scottish Government funding is allocated appropriately,” it said.
The Period Products Act came into effect on Monday and means that menstrual products, including tampons and pads, will be available for free in public facilities in Scotland.
It will be the responsibility of local authorities and training providers to ensure that products are made available free of charge.
Grant called the legislation “transformative and overdue” in the press release announcing his appointment.
“With our partners, we will look at improving the existing distribution and availability of products, including sustainable options, and even design performing arts workshops in schools and colleges to improve education across periods,” he said.
His appointment “surprised and intrigued some colleagues and friends,” according to the press release, but Grant, a former personal trainer and tobacco salesman, said he believes he has a lot to bring to the role.
“I believe that being a man will help me break down barriers, reduce stigma and encourage more open discussions. Although they directly affect women, periods are an issue for everyone,” he said, adding that he would also work for menopause awareness.
“It’s time to normalize these issues and get real about it,” he added. “I believe I can make progress by proving that this is not just a women’s issue, by encouraging conversations between all genders, and by educating and engaging new audiences.”
A spokesman for the task force that hired Grant said giving him the job “was a no-brainer given his vast experience in managing projects from both the private and public sectors”.
CNN has reached out to Grainger PR for further comment.
