Exams role for ex-BBC controller

John McCormick takes up his new post in September

A former controller of BBC Scotland, John McCormick, is the new chairman of the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Mr McCormick, 59, retired from the BBC in April and takes up the four days a month post on 1 September. It runs for four years and pays £12,645 a year.

The former history teacher said he looked forward to helping the SQA build on its recent achievements.

The authority was founded in 1996 and is responsible for qualifications other than degrees in Scotland.

Education Minister Peter Peacock said: "The chairmanship of the SQA is a key post at the heart of Scotland's education and training system.

'Wealth of experience'

"I believe that, in attracting such a high-calibre chairman as John McCormick, the SQA is further demonstrating that it has not only turned the corner but is an organisation looking to the future with confidence.

"John McCormick brings a wealth of relevant experience to the SQA both from his roles in managing a complex organisation such as BBC Scotland and as an excellent communicator."

The SQA was severely criticised after major problems in the marking and issue of exam results in 2001.

The agency has undergone wide-ranging reforms since then to avoid the problems being repeated.

'Wisdom and energy'

Its chief executive, Anton Colella, said: "We at SQA are delighted to have someone of the calibre of John McCormick appointed as chairman.

"We know he will bring experience, knowledge, wisdom and energy to the role and, under his leadership, SQA will continue to move forward at the heart of Scotland's education system.

"On a personal level, I am really looking forward to working with him.

"I would also take this opportunity to pay tribute to the excellent leadership Sir John Ward has given us in his time as our chairman, and wish him well in his future roles."