Joe Griffin has been appointed the top civil servant in The Scottish Government to work closely with the First Minister on major strategic and policy issues.
He will take up his post in April following the departure of JP Marks to become First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Mr Griffin was appointed Director General in the Scottish Government in 2021 and has been employed for 29 years in the Civil Service. He led on the expansion of the childcare service to 1,140 hours a year – the same as primary school.
The appointment is made by the UK Cabinet Secretary with First Minister, John Swinney’s, agreement.
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.”
UK Cabinet Secretary 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.”
Mr Griffin 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.”
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