Scottish Qualifications Authority appoints new chief executive

Scotland’s examination body has announced the appointment of its new chief executive.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) revealed Fiona Robertson will take up the position in July.

Ms Robertson is currently the Scottish Government’s director of learning and over the last six years has led on school education.

Her position at the Government involved work on a range of issues including the development and delivery of Curriculum for Excellence, the Scottish Attainment Challenge, as well as the National Improvement Framework for Education and Education Reform.

Ms Robertson’s new role includes being Scotland’s chief examining officer.

SQA chairman David Middleton said: “I am delighted to announce Fiona Robertson as SQA’s new chief executive.

“Fiona has had a distinguished career in the Scottish Government and currently occupies a leading role in overseeing the strategic direction of Scottish education.

“I believe Fiona will relish the opportunity to lead SQA in making its unique contribution to Scottish life. I look forward to working with her.”

Ms Robertson said: “I am very pleased to be joining SQA which is so central to the education and training system in Scotland, and it is a great privilege to be its new chief executive.”

Education Secretary John Swinney said: “My congratulations to Fiona Robertson on her appointment.

“Fiona is an outstanding public servant and will bring a broad range of experience and credibility in the education sector to the role.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with Fiona and the SQA board to maintain our excellent qualifications and assessments system.”