What we do

Public Appointments

As regulator of public appointments made to key public bodies in Scotland, our role is to provide assurance that appointments are made on merit, using methods that are fair and open, and reflect the diversity of Scottish society today. We do this through the following activities:

Establish Framework

We publish a Code of Practice for Ministerial Appointments that puts applicants at the heart of the appointments process.

Provide Oversight

Our independent Public Appointments Advisers oversee the public appointments process to provide support to panels and enable compliance with the Code of Practice.

Produce Guidance

We provide selection panels with guidance on Code compliance, promoting diversity, and maintaining transparency. Applicants can also refer to our guidance and find out how to apply for opportunities.

Investigate Complaints

We undertake examinations and investigate complaints about public appointments, and report to the Scottish Parliament as needed.

Develop Strategy

We develop a strategy for Scotland's public appointments to ensure boards are reflective of the Scottish population which they serve.

Principles of Public Appointments

The public appointments process must be focused on providing successful outcomes that meet the needs of a board and promote diversity. The Code of Practice is therefore centred on the following principles:

Merit
Accountability
Openness, Transparency and Integrity
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Respect

Code of Practice for Ministerial Appointments to Public Bodies in Scotland - March 2022 Version

Our priorities for public appointments: 2024-2028

We will, through supportive and constructive regulation, make a significant contribution to a public appointments system that produces effective and diverse boards that are reflective of the communities that they serve.
We will strive to be recognised leaders in the regulation of a system that is effectively run to achieve the appointment of the most able people to our boards and that is managed in compliance with the highest ethical standards.

ESC Strategic Plan 2024-2028