Real Lives: Retiring Historic Scotland chief praised for his leadership

Published on Tuesday 29 September 2009 10:22

The chief executive of Historic Scotland is to retire at the end of the month after spending almost four decades in the civil service.

John Graham, 59, has worked in the civil service for a staggering 37 years, the last five of which have been spent fulfilling his role as chief executive of Historic Scotland.

Mr Graham, who lives in The Grange but grew up in East Lothian, previously headed up the former environment and rural affairs department in the Scottish Office, the finance group and the local government group.

Reflecting on his time with Historic Scotland, he said: "I have had a most enjoyable and rewarding time working with Historic Scotland and its partner organisations. The agency fulfils an incredibly important role in Scotland and it has been a privilege to work with such dedicated and expert staff."

Mr Graham added: "I have decided that the time is right to retire and to allow new leadership to consider the challenges facing Historic Scotland, and I would wish the agency all the best for the future."

Ruth Parsons has been appointed interim chief executive and arrangements will be made to fill the post on a permanent basis next year.

Minister for culture, external affairs and the constitution, Michael Russell, said: "I would like to take this opportunity, on the announcement of John's retirement, to thank him for the significant contribution he has made over the years to public service in Scotland.

"I would also offer my personal thanks for the leadership he has shown during his five years as chief executive of Historic Scotland. During that time, Historic Scotland has delivered consistently strong performances.

"As we embark on a more challenging environment for public services and develop the government's strategy for Scotland's historic and natural heritage, John leaves Historic Scotland at the heart of this landscape, well placed to meet the challenges of the future."

He added: "I look forward to working with Ruth Parsons on the further development of the impressive work that Historic Scotland does."

Meanwhile David McGibbon, non-executive director of Historic Scotland and chairman of the audit committee, said: "I fully endorse the minister's comments that under John Graham's leadership, Historic Scotland has consistently delivered strong performances in what are difficult economic circumstances.

"During his tenure, John introduced the role of non-executive directors to the agency – an entirely new concept.

"The agency now has six independent non-executive directors on the board, and the fact that the board functions well as a unit is, I believe, due in no small measure to John Graham's leadership."