Sir Mark Jones Steps Down as HES Chairman
Sir Mark Jones, who was appointed chairman of Historic Environment Scotland (HES) in September, has resigned nine months into his four-year term. His departure follows a period of intense scrutiny and internal investigations within the heritage organisation.
Background of Investigations and Issues at HES
In October of the previous year, HES initiated an internal probe amid allegations of corruption and a controversy related to racism within the organisation. Additionally, reports emerged that a senior leader at HES faced sanctions for allegedly "twerking" in front of actor Martin Compston during a corporate event.
A report by the Auditor General released in the same year identified "unacceptable weaknesses" in HES leadership. The report highlighted that the organisation lacked "sufficiently robust policies" to effectively mitigate fraud risks.
HES operates as an arms-length body funded by the Scottish government, responsible for maintaining over 300 historic sites, including Edinburgh Castle.
Katerina Brown, the chief executive, was suspended following an investigation into her conduct but has since returned to her position.
Transition and Statements on Leadership
A spokesperson for HES confirmed that Sir Mark Jones will continue in his role until a successor is appointed to ensure a smooth transition.
"We are grateful for Sir Mark's leadership and commitment to HES during a challenging period for the organisation."
In response to the Audit Scotland report last year, Sir Mark acknowledged the "serious governance issues and cultural problems identified" within HES. He also addressed the "impact of recent leadership instability," noting that it was "unacceptable" for the organisation to operate without an accountable officer for nearly six months—from 2 May to 20 October—until chief executive Katerina Brown resumed her duties.
Controversies and Disciplinary Actions
In September of the previous year, The National reported that Craig Mearns, the operations director at HES, faced disciplinary action over comments he made about visitors at Edinburgh Castle. Despite this, he remained in his position.
Later, Scotland on Sunday reported that a senior HES leader was sanctioned for allegedly dancing provocatively by "twerking" at a corporate event held at Edinburgh Castle in 2023. This behaviour reportedly made celebrity guests Martin Compston and Penny Lancaster uncomfortable.
Historic Environment Scotland manages approximately 300 sites, including Edinburgh Castle.
Political Reactions
Murdo Fraser, the Scottish Conservative culture spokesman, criticised the chairman's early resignation as further evidence of the Scottish National Party's (SNP) "chronic mismanagement of this toxic quango."
"Historic Environment Scotland has spent years mired in scandal and crisis while the former culture secretary, Angus Robertson, was asleep at the wheel, failing to engage with the board and misleading parliament about his supervision of the organisation.
Now the man brought in by the SNP to sort out the bullying and grotesque misuse of funds has thrown in the towel after barely a year in the post.
HES receives more than £70m worth of taxpayers' money every year, so nationalist ministers must sort out this mess immediately."
Culture Secretary Màiri McAllan expressed gratitude towards Sir Mark for his service during a difficult period.
"The Scottish government is grateful to Sir Mark for his service.
During a period of significant scrutiny and change, he has provided strong leadership.
We appreciate his commitment and the valuable contribution he has made."
