New SNP leader must have «demonstrable financial experience»

The post was published after Peter Murrell retired in March after 22 years in the job. Credit: REUTERS

SNP is looking for a new chief executive with «proven financial management experience» to replace Nicola Sturgeon's husband, Peter Murrell.

In an online job posting, the SNP invited applications to £95,000 a year post saying they were looking for a 'dynamic' candidate who would ensure the party's 'continued electoral success'.

As Police Scotland investigate the finances of the SNP, the announcement said the new the executive director will be «responsible for implementing management change and transparency.»

It also stated that the candidate would have to demonstrate a «strong commitment to Scottish independence» and take «tangible action» to that end.

The announcement was made after Mr Murrell, who held the post for for 22 years, resigned in March after the party denied accurate reports that it had lost 30,000 members. Mr. Murrell was arrested the following month by police investigating SNP finances, and their home was ransacked for two days.

Officers also confiscated a £110,000 luxury motorhome near the home of Mr Murrell's 92-year-old mother in Dunfermline. He has been released without charge pending further investigation.

Since July 2021 the Scottish Police have been looking into the SNP's handling of over £600,000 in donations raised in 2017 for a second independence referendum.

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Supporters filed complaints when reports filed with Companies House in 2020 showed that there were only £97,000 in the SNP bank despite the referendum never being held.

Recent polls have shown a sharp drop in SNP support and the party is projected to lose more than 20 seats to Labor next year. general elections this year.

But the announcement stated that the vacancy was a chance to lead an operational unit of «one of the most successful political parties in Western Europe» and «ensure the next stage of our development and success.»

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It added: «Experience and expertise in campaigning is essential, as well as focusing on the needs of our members.»

Financial Management

In the «specification of the person», the message said it was important that the new chief executive could demonstrate “experience in financial management, including budget management and reporting.”

The job description stated that the successful candidate should “develop and implement strategies to ensure sound and transparent financial planning and reporting structures.”

He should also have “knowledge of risk management processes” when working with the COR book. Desirable criteria included «significant media experience».

The successful candidate also had to «manage campaign resources effectively to maximize electoral success in Scotland» and be able to «manage controversy».

The announcement comes after the SNP appointed MP Stuart Macdonald as its new treasurer in April. Colin Beatty, his predecessor, resigned after being arrested by police investigating SNP finances.

Like Mr. Murrell, he was released without further charges pending further investigation. The party has also appointed new auditors after the longtime firm that audited its accounts resigned last September.

The party's reports are to be submitted to the Electoral Commission by the end of July.