What was your highlight of 2025?
It was a privilege to take up role as permanent secretary to the Scottish Government, an organisation in which I've served for over two decades. It has been a source of pride and professional satisfaction to support the first minister and his cabinet in taking forward the Programme for Government and working hard to improve people’s lives. Another highlight of course has to be seeing Scotland qualify for their first World Cup since 1998. Even as someone who did not grow up in Scotland, it was a hugely significant moment which gave the whole country a massive lift.
What is the hardest part of being a leader in 2025?
We all operate in a 24-hour news environment and at times that can feel challenging. For me, it’s important to remain positive and firmly focused on the work we are leading as civil servants, working with our partners to deliver positive outcomes for the people of Scotland and progressing the first minister’s priorities; eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency and ensuring high quality and sustainable services.
What are the main challenges facing your government in the coming year?
We all continue to face a challenging fiscal context. That requires stronger creativity and collaboration to drive progress across our policy and delivery priorities. Of course we are also preparing for the Scottish Parliament election in 2026. This is a moment where the civil service really comes into its own as a key institution in our democracy. It is also an opportunity, whatever the election outcome, in a new parliamentary term to be clear on the government’s approach to addressing the public policy challenges of our age.
And finally, which celebrity or historical figure would you choose to turn on the Christmas lights in your town and why?
In terms of historical figures, I think Mary Queen of Scots would put the cat among the pigeons. However, for a more contemporary focus, Scott McTominay, drawing in the crowds and ensuring that the feel good factor around the World Cup shines brightly through the festive season.
Read all the entries to this year's perm secs round up here