Fiona McQueen steps down as chair of the SPA
Fiona McQueen CBE has stepped down as chair of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) with immediate effect for personal and family reasons.
She joined the Authority as a Board member in February 2021 and became chair in February 2025.
Ms McQueen said: “It has been a privilege to serve on the SPA and to work alongside dedicated Board colleagues and the leadership teams across policing in Scotland.
“I have great respect for the professionalism and commitment shown by those who serve to keep communities safe. I wish the Authority and all those involved in its work every success in the future.”
Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “I would like to thank Fiona McQueen for the dedication, leadership and experience she brought to the SPA over the past five years, first as a Board member and then more recently as chair.
“During that time, Fiona has played an important role in strengthening the SPA’s oversight of policing in Scotland. Her commitment to good governance, openness, transparency, and ensuring that people are at the heart of decision making has been central to the SPA’s progress.
“Fiona’s leadership has been pivotal in supporting the transformation and continuous improvement of policing, and I am grateful for the dedication she has shown throughout her time at the SPA. I wish her well for the future.”
Chris Brown, chief executive of the SPA, added: “I want to thank Fiona McQueen for her leadership and dedication during her time as chair of the Authority. I have valued working closely with her and I am grateful for her support since I took on the role as chief executive.
“While I am sorry to see her step down, I fully respect her decision and wish her and her family all the very best for the future.”
Alasdair Hay, current vice-chair, will assume the role and responsibilities as chair of the Authority until a recruitment process can be initiated by the Scottish government in due course.