A VOLUNTARY redundancy scheme is now open for SNP HQ staff as the party goes ahead with a "new, streamlined headquarters structure".
The party's national executive committee (NEC) today approved a plan to consult staff on the proposed structure with the hope it would ensure "financial sustainability" for the party.
Following the meeting this morning, SNP HQ staff were updated on the consultation by interim chief executive Carol Beattie. The proposed new structure being consulted upon would see SNP HQ headcount reduced from 26 to 16. The business case for the proposal includes that staffing costs are 81% of income from membership fees in 2024, having stood at around 35% in 2015.
The party said the proposal would build on the promise by SNP Leader John Swinney to the party’s annual conference in September to deliver a “professional, dynamic election-winning organisation”. Commenting, SNP national secretary councillor Alex Kerr said: “The National Executive Committee has been tasked with delivering a modern, dynamic election-winning party to win in 2026 and beyond - and today’s agreement to consult on a new structure at Headquarters makes key progress to deliver on that aim. “The proposal, agreed by the SNP national executive committee today, would get HQ into shape for future elections and for the fight for independence. It would mean that not everyone currently employed at HQ will continue with us but a streamlined headquarters protects the long-term finances of the party and delivers on the modern, professional, election-winning organisation Scotland needs. “The SNP’s success is built on the work of many people - in our party HQ, in local campaign teams and those in elected office. I’d like to extend my thanks to all of those who continue to work for the party to achieve that ultimate aim of independence for Scotland.”