Senior civil servant Joe Griffin, who delivered the expansion of early years education in Scotland, has been appointed Permanent Secretary to the Scottish Government. 

Mr Griffin, who takes up his post next month, is currently Director General Strategy and External Affairs and led across a range of policy and delivery priorities during his 29 years in the Civil Service.

The appointment has been made formally by the UK Cabinet Secretary, Chris Wormald, on the agreement of the First Minister, John Swinney, and the recommendation of the First Civil Service Commissioner. 

Mr Griffin will succeed John-Paul Marks, who will take up the role of First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

As chief official policy adviser, the Permanent Secretary works closely with the First Minister across the full range of responsibilities, including major strategic and policy issues, and is Secretary to the Scottish Cabinet.  

Mr Swinney said:  “My thanks to JP Marks for his devoted public service and leadership of the Civil Service. My Cabinet and I are grateful for the invaluable advice he has provided during his time at the Scottish Government. I join with so many across the Scottish public sector and beyond in wishing JP every success in his new role at HMRC.   

“I welcome Joe Griffin’s appointment as Permanent Secretary of the Scottish Government. He brings a wealth of experience to this role from his distinguished career in the Civil Service. 

“I know from his record of delivery, not least on the massive expansion of early learning and childcare that he led, that Joe will deliver an unyielding focus on delivering for the people of Scotland.” 

Sir Chris Wormald said: “I would like to congratulate Joe on his appointment. He brings extensive experience from his roles at Scottish Government, including as Director General Strategy and External Affairs and previously Director General Education and Justice. Joe is well placed to lead the organisation and provide excellent support to Ministers. 

“I would like to thank JP Marks for his leadership of the Scottish Government over the last three years.”

Earlier in his career Mr Griffin was a diplomat at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office which included postings to New York and Paris.

On his new role, he said: “It is a privilege to be appointed Permanent Secretary and lead the Civil Service in the Scottish Government. I am grateful to the First Minister and the Cabinet Secretary for this opportunity. 

“My focus will be on working with colleagues and partners to drive progress and deliver the government’s four priorities; eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency, and ensuring high quality and sustainable public services. I look forward to leading the organisation as we deliver in the service of Scotland.”