Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party

The leader of the Scottish Conservative Party (officially the leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party) is the highest position within the Scottish Conservative Party. The current holder of the position is Russell Findlay, who was elected to the position on 27 September 2024, replacing Douglas Ross.

Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
Logo for the Scottish Conservative Party
Incumbent Russell Findlay since 27 September 2024
Type	Party leader
Precursor	Leader of the Conservative Party in the Scottish Parliament
Inaugural holder	Ruth Davidson (as Leader)

If the Scottish Conservative Party were to be in Scottish Government, the leader would usually become the First Minister of Scotland as well as appointing the Scottish cabinet.

Background

The position of Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party was created in 2011. The new position of Scottish party leader was created following the recommendations of the Sanderson Commission.^[1]

Prior to the creation of the post, the leader was Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party in the Scottish Parliament (1999–2011).

Leaders of the party

Leader (birth–death)		Took office	Left office	Election
	Ruth Davidson (born 1978)	4 November 2011	29 August 2019	2011
	Jackson Carlaw (born 1959)	29 August 2019	30 July 2020	Feb 2020
	Douglas Ross (born 1983)	5 August 2020	27 September 2024	Aug 2020
	Russell Findlay (born 1972 or 1973)	27 September 2024		2024