Beattie Steps In Power

Former Stirling Council chief Carol Beattie has been appointed as the interim CEO of the SNP, succeeding Murray Foote, who resigned after just over a year in the role. The SNP’s national executive committee (NEC) announced Beattie's appointment as the party prepares for significant internal reforms ahead of the crucial 2026 Scottish Parliament elections.

Murray Foote, previously head of communications for the SNP, cited personal reasons for his departure, stating he couldn't commit fully to steering the party through its restructuring. While stepping down from leadership, Foote is expected to assist in a smooth handover as the SNP searches for a permanent replacement.

Carol Beattie expressed her gratitude for the new role, calling it a "tremendous honor." Beattie had served as Stirling Council’s chief executive until her resignation earlier this year. She also recently ran as an SNP candidate in a Falkirk South council by-election, where she led in first-preference votes but ultimately lost to Labour’s Claire Aitken.

On her appointment, Beattie emphasized her commitment to strengthening the party's infrastructure and ensuring readiness for upcoming political challenges. "I'm eager to meet the team and get to work on reinforcing the SNP’s organizational capacity," she stated, underscoring her focus on the party's headquarters.

SNP deputy leader Keith Brown praised Beattie’s leadership qualities, noting, "Her experience is invaluable as we continue building a modern, professional, and dynamic election-winning organization."

Beattie takes on this position at a turbulent time for the SNP, following a substantial defeat in July’s general election, where the party's presence in Westminster shrank from 48 to just nine MPs. With critical reforms on the horizon, including upgrades to campaign systems, Beattie's leadership will be key to regaining momentum.

However, Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy criticized the move, citing it as further evidence of ongoing “turmoil” within the SNP amid recent scandals that have affected the party’s image.