The Scotland Office and the Office of the Advocate General have strengthened their management team with the appointment of three new non-executive directors.
Susan Deacon has been appointed as lead non-executive director, and Catherine MacLeod and Andrew Kerr have been appointed as non-executive directors. The appointments have been made following a rigorous, fair and open recruitment process under the public appointment rules. The appointees join Martin Dorchester and Stuart Patrick as non-executive members on the offices' joint management board.
Announcing the appointments Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:
"This is great news for the Scotland Office and the Office of the Advocate General. I am delighted to welcome Susan, Catherine and Andrew to the team. These distinguished individuals bring a wealth of skills and experience. They join our current non-executive directors who will continue to offer invaluable insight, advice and challenge. They will all be instrumental in helping us deliver on my four key priorities - economic growth, delivering clean energy, tackling poverty, and rolling out Brand Scotland. These appointments demonstrate our commitment to strong governance and strategic leadership, which is a key part of the UK Government's Plan for Change."
UK Government non-executive board members are appointed by the Secretary of State following approval by the Prime Minister and sit on the departmental board. Their role is to:
Give advice to ministers and officials on the operational and delivery implications of policy proposals.
Provide independent support, guidance and challenge on the progress and implementation of the department's strategic direction.
Advise on performance and monitor implementation of the department's business plans.
Non-executive directors do not have decision-making powers.
