The SNP has appointed former MP Callum McCaig as its fifth chief executive since Peter Murrell – the husband of former party leader Nicola Sturgeon – stood down in March 2023.
It follows the decision of Carol Beattie to step down from the role with immediate effect because of personal health reasons.
The new CEO is the former leader of Aberdeen Council, former MP for Aberdeen South, served as a special adviser to two SNP First Ministers and has worked in the private sector specialising in public affairs and campaigns.
SNP Business Convener Angela Constance said: “Callum brings a wealth of experience from the public and private sector, and will steer the organisation with determination and focus as we head into the 2026 election campaign.
“I’d like to pay tribute to Carol Beattie, who has been a lynchpin in delivering a streamlined Headquarters operation, ensuring fiscal stability and with an acute focus on election-winning strategy.
“I know this has not been an easy decision for her to make but I admire her courage to put her own health first. I thank Carol wholeheartedly for her service to the SNP and to the wider cause of independence, both of which I know she will continue to campaign for.”
Mr McCaig said: “The party is fighting-fit and election-ready. I look forward to working with John Swinney to secure that victory in 2026, and onward to independence.”
Carol Beattie said: “While I am stepping down with immediate effect due to personal health reasons, I will continue to play my part in the campaign to deliver an SNP victory in 2026 and Scotland’s journey to independence.”
New ministers
Graeme Dey has been appointed Minister for Parliamentary Business and for Veterans by First Minister John Swinney.
Ben Macpherson will succeed Mr Dey as Minister for Higher & Further Education.
Mr Dey is the MSP for the Angus South constituency and worked for the Courier in Dundee as a sports journalist.
He was Minister for Parliamentary Business & Veterans from 2018 to 2021, before serving as Minister for Transport until 2022. In March 2023 he was appointed as Minister for Higher & Further Education and Minister for Veterans.
Mr Macpherson is the MSP for the Edinburgh Northern & Leith constituency. He grew up in the Scottish capital and graduated at the University of York before studying law at University of Edinburgh and becoming a lawyer in the city.
He served as Minister for Europe, Migration & International Development from June 2018 to February 2020, then Minister for Public Finance & Migration until being appointed Minister for Rural Affairs & the Natural Environment in December 2020. In 2021 he became Minister for Social Security & Local Government, a post he held until leaving government in March 2023.
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