John Swinney

John Swinney

Author: BBC Radio 4 May 11, 2024 Duration: 14:59

After over four decades in the SNP and nearly two in government, John Swinney is finally stepping up to the top job for the first time, becoming Scotland’s new First Minister.

He’s no stranger to big jobs - it’s actually his second stint as SNP leader - but leading his country and his party is looking tougher than ever, as the SNP finds itself facing formidable challenges.

Who is this stalwart of the SNP, and do his life and experiences equip him for the task ahead? Mark Coles talks to friends, colleagues, and those who’ve watched this political operator up close for years.

CONTRIBUTORS Rosanna Cunningham, former MSP, Deputy Leader to John Swinney Allan Little, BBC Special Correspondent Glenn Campbell, Political Editor, BBC Scotland News Rev. Neil Glover, Church of Scotland Minister Ian Blackford, Scottish National Party, MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber Pam Muir, constituency organiser for Perthshire North

PRODUCTION TEAM Presenter: Mark Coles Producer: Nathan Gower Assistant Producer: Diane Richardson and Marianna Brain Editor: Tom Bigwood Programme Coordinators: Maria Ogundele Sound Engineer: Neil Churchill

CREDITS ‘John Swinney (We Salute You)' by Nocturnal Vermin (Isaac Brutal, James ‘Slippyunderfoot‘ McCready, Arnold Bastard)


Each week, Profile from BBC Radio 4 takes a single name from the global conversation and builds a detailed portrait, moving far beyond the headlines. This isn't a simple biography or a news recap. Instead, through careful documentary storytelling and personal journal excerpts where available, the podcast constructs a nuanced examination of character and motive. You’ll hear from colleagues, critics, and sometimes the subjects themselves, piecing together what drives and defines the people shaping our world. The focus rests firmly on influence, whether in politics, the arts, science, or social movements, exploring how an individual's background and choices ripple through society and culture. Listening to this podcast feels like gaining a deeper, more textured understanding of the figures you think you know, revealing the contradictions and convictions behind the public image. It’s a thoughtful half-hour that challenges first impressions, asking what truly lies behind a name in the news.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Profile
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