Michael Walker to succeed Gerard Sinclair at SCCRC

Michael Walker, head of Casework & Information Governance at the Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission, has been named as the Commission's next chief executive.

He will succeed Gerard Sinclair, who retires in September after more than 18 years in post, which the Commission believes makes him the longest serving chief executive of an arms' length public body in Scotland.

The Commission is an independent body set up to review alleged miscarriages of justice in Scottish convictions and/or sentences. It can refer a case to the High Court if it believes that a miscarriage of justice may have occurred, to be considered as with a normal criminal appeal.

Mr Walker began working with the Commission as a legal officer in 2001, subsequently being promoted to senior legal officer in 2007 and then head of Casework & Information Governance in 2013.

Bill Matthews, chair of the Commission commented: "Finding a suitable replacement for Gerry was always going to be difficult but the board are delighted to be able to appoint Michael following a competitive process. Michael brings to the position a strong criminal legal knowledge and experience, coupled with a fantastic awareness of the Commission’s operating procedures and role within the criminal justice system.

"The board is therefore confident that he is able for the challenge that the chief executive role presents and looks forward to supporting the handover process."