New PIRC Statutory Advisory Board appointed
The Chair of PIRC’s Statutory Advisory Board has formally welcomed four new members - and together they will work to help deliver the organisation’s strategic vision.
Maureen Mallon was appointed at the helm last month and was joined on Monday, 27 April 2026 by Michelle Wailes, John McCroskie, Gary Stewart and Alan Wright.
Their appointments follow a competitive recruitment process led by the Scottish Government. The Board will fulfil a similar role to the previous Audit and Accountability Committee albeit with a statutory basis under the Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) (Scotland) Act 2025.
“The new Advisory Board will provide healthy and constructive support and challenge for PIRC during this exciting time of change,” said Maureen who is an experienced public sector leader.
A date has yet to be set for the Board to convene its first meeting. It will work with the Senior Leadership Team to consider PIRC's next Annual Report and forthcoming Strategic Plan.
Commissioner, Laura Paton, said: “I look forward to the inaugural meeting of our new Board and will welcome their contribution as we make good progress around our strategic planning - which aims to ensure we keep providing the best possible service to the public.”
Michelle contributes over two decades in governance, audit, risk and financial oversight and John brings over 30 years of executive experience in public bodies, central government, and the private sector. Gary has extensive senior-level assurance experience across the public sector, overseeing corporate governance, legal services, risk management, due diligence and internal audit.
Alan, who specialises in corporate governance, organisational change and risk oversight, said: "I’m delighted to be joining the Board where I will support the Commissioner in delivering PIRC's statutory functions, aims and objectives.”