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.