Faster reform of Scotland’s public sector is needed to protect services in the long term and improve people’s lives.

The Scottish Government is facing increased costs, including a higher public sector wage bill, while the cost-of-living crisis is driving greater demand for public services. Without careful management of public finances, there is a risk that the government could overspend in 2022/23, which could have implications for future budgets.

Ruth MacLeod is a communications specialist with more than 20 years’ experience working in strategic Public Relations, predominantly in the public sector, she has led on complex corporate communications issues. She has held roles within the police, the local authority sector, the Scottish Government and the fire and rescue service. 

Jennifer Henderson has extensive public sector management and leadership experience and is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute. She is currently the Chief Executive and Keeper of the Registers of Scotland, delivering a substantial programme of digital transformation.

Nichola Brown brings extensive experience in partnership working across statutory, community and voluntary organisations, having worked in public health in Glasgow for over twenty years. With a strong commitment to social justice and reducing inequalities, Nichola has led and managed the implementation of a complex portfolio of work programmes to improve population health, translating national and city strategies into the local context. This is underpinned by her background in community development.

Malcolm Bell has extensive experience in the public and third sectors. He served as Convener of Shetland Islands Council from 2012 until 2022. During this time, amongst other appointments, he was a member of the COSLA Convention, served as a director of the Improvement Service Ltd, and as President of the Scottish Provosts Association. 

Four new members of the Accounts Commission have been confirmed by Ben Macpherson MSP, Minister for Social Security and Local Government. The new members are: Malcolm Bell, Nichola Brown, Jennifer Henderson and Ruth MacLeod. The appointments follow an extensive recruitment exercise.

Audit Scotland Associate Director Elaine Boyd has been named as one of Britain’s most influential disabled people in the 2022 Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 list.

Elaine, who is responsible for Audit Quality and Appointments at Audit Scotland and has cerebral palsy, was nominated to the list for her work in finance.

Helena Gray has been appointed the new Controller of Audit, leading on the reporting of issues from the audits of local government in Scotland to the Accounts Commission.  

Helena joins from the Scottish Government, where she has been the Interim Director of Fair Work, Employability and Skills since April 2021. Previously Helena held several senior leadership roles in both the UK and Scottish Government.

Helena said:  

Leugh an duilleag seo sa Ghàidhlig

Councillors at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar must provide leadership and clear priorities if the organisation is to improve public services and address significant financial and workforce challenges.