Director for Local Government appointed to lead Scottish Police Authority

A new chief executive has been appointed to lead Scotland's police watchdog.

Kenneth Hogg is being seconded from the Scottish Government to take on the role at the Scottish Police Authority (SPA).

The previous chief executive John Foley had come under pressure after HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) highlighted ''dysfunction'' at the top of the organisation.

Mr Hogg is being seconded to the post for 12 months with Andrew Flanagan, the outgoing chair of the SPA, describing him as a “highly skilled and experienced leader”.

Mr Flanagan is stepping down from his role with the SPA after concerns were raised about governance and transparency at the organisation, alongside criticism of his leadership.

Mr Hogg, who is switching to the new job from his current role as the Scottish Government's director for local government and communities, has a “strong track-record in public service” Mr Flanagan added.

He also praised the incoming chief executive's history of “encouraging participation and collaboration, and motivating and developing strong teams in high-profile areas of public service”.

Mr Flanagan said: “All those capabilities fit well with the demands that come with the chief officer role, and it is of additional benefit that he has first-hand experience of the reforms to policing which underpin the structure and organisations we have today.

“I want to again pay tribute to the commitment and valued service that John Foley has given to the SPA and policing over what has been a period of unprecedented change. We wish him well for the future.”

Mr Hogg stated: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this role, and am looking forward to working with colleagues across policing and the wide range of stakeholders and communities for whom this public service is so important.”

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson welcomed the appointment, saying Mr Hogg's “extensive background in public service reform, financial accountability and leading strong teams in high-profile areas will stand him in good stead with the demands that come with the reshaped chief officer role”

He added: “I look forward to working with him in the coming months.”

The appointment comes at the same time as concerns have been raised about leadership at Police Scotland, with Chief Constable Phil Gormley on leave as allegations of gross misconduct against him are investigated.