THE former editor of The Scotsman newspaper, John McLellan, is to take on a new role as communications director for the Scottish Conservative Party.
McLellan left The Scotsman Publications Ltd in April after 19 years with the company, during which time he edited The Scotsman, Scotland on Sunday and the Edinburgh Evening News, becoming the group’s editor-in-chief.
The Scotsman was named Newspaper of the Year at the Scottish Press Awards a week after his departure.
Says a media release issued by the Scottish Tories: “In his new post, McLellan will advise Scottish party leader Ruth Davidson on communications strategy, direction and content.”
McLellan is quoted, as saying: “Ruth is doing a tremendous job not only in arguing the Scottish Conservative case but in reshaping perceptions of Scottish Conservatism.
“She is clear in her pursuit of modernising the party and moving the debate in Scotland towards the centre-right.
“As the referendum approaches, the party has a key role in ensuring the benefits of the Union and the implications of separation are properly explored.
“It is no secret I strongly believe Scotland has benefitted and will continue to benefit from being a strong part of the United Kingdom and I very much look forward to working with Ruth on developing the Scottish Conservative message at such a crucial time.
“A strong, modern Scottish Conservative voice with the values of hard work, just reward, personal responsibility and choice at its core has never been so badly needed as the SNP and Labour slug it out on the left.”
