Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) appoints new CEO
Nick Page was the unanimous choice of a staff panel, a representative group of SQA colleagues which interviewed shortlisted candidates
The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has appointed Nick Page as its new chief executive officer.
Page brings a “track record of successful delivery, service transformation and improved outcomes” across his 30-year career spanning teaching, children’s services and local-authority leadership.
He will assume the role of CEO on 7 July and assume the leadership of Qualifications Scotland when it replaces SQA in December.
His appointment follows the passage of the Education (Scotland) Bill through its third stage.
The SQA now has former teachers leading the organisation, including Page and Scotland’s chief examining officer, Donna Stewart.
Experienced headteacher Sarah Brown will also join SQA next month as senior adviser, where she will lead the development of the new Schools Unit.
Page was identified as the outstanding candidate following a “rigorous” recruitment process led by SQA chair, Shirley Rogers CBE.
He was also the unanimous choice of a staff panel, a representative group of SQA colleagues which interviewed shortlisted candidates.
Rogers said: “We set the bar high to find a dynamic leader with the depth of experience, values and commitment to public service and partnership that our organisation – and Scotland – needs.
I am absolutely delighted that Nick has chosen to join us. His career spans many achievements and a proven ability to lead through both change and challenge. I am confident that, drawing on these experiences and a commitment to learning from them, Nick will drive the positive transformation that ensures Qualifications Scotland delivers for every learner, every educator, and every community.
She added: “I also wish to thank John Booth for stepping up as interim CEO and for the positive contribution he has made while leading our organisation.”
Page said: “I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve as CEO of SQA and to lead Scotland’s new national awarding body when Qualifications Scotland opens its doors in December. The passage of the Education (Scotland) Bill challenges us all to make reform a success – and we will deliver.
“SQA is already transforming at pace to build strong foundations for Qualifications Scotland, harnessing the deep knowledge, skills and commitment of our people. We will accelerate that work to deliver a future that improves outcomes and supports learning and teaching.”
He added: “As a former teacher from a family of teachers, I am keenly aware of the challenges faced in classrooms, colleges and across the education community, especially since the pandemic.
“Our new Schools Unit will ensure that the way we develop and deliver our products and services reflects this new reality, while safeguarding the credibility and value of qualifications. We will also work across the education and skills community to ensure that assessment and awarding align with wider pathways for success.”