By James Delaney

Copyright bbc

McCaig is the fifth person to take on the chief executive role since Peter Murrell’s resignation for misleading the media about party membership numbers in March 2023.

Michael Russell and Sue Ruddick both stepped into the role on an interim basis before the former Daily Record editor Murray Foote was appointed the following October.

He lasted 14 months before he too stepped down, stating he “could not make the necessary personal commitment” to reorganising the party after that year’s disappointing general election performance.

The role was then taken on by Carol Beattie.

The SNP’s business convener, Angela Constance, said: “Callum brings a wealth of experience from the public and private sector, and will steer the organisation with determination and focus as we head into the 2026 election campaign.

“I’d like to pay tribute to Carol Beattie, who has been a lynchpin in delivering a streamlined headquarters operation, ensuring fiscal stability and with an acute focus on election-winning strategy.

“I know this has not been an easy decision for her to make but I admire her courage to put her own health first. I thank Carol wholeheartedly for her service to the SNP and to the wider cause of independence, both of which I know she will continue to campaign for.”