John Swinney

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 NorthPRODUCTION TEAM Presenter: Mark Coles Producer: Nathan Gower Assistant Producer: Diane Richardson and Marianna Brain Editor: Tom Bigwood Programme Coordinators: Maria Ogundele Sound Engineer: Neil ChurchillCREDITS ‘John Swinney (We Salute You)' by Nocturnal Vermin (Isaac Brutal, James ‘Slippyunderfoot‘ McCready, Arnold Bastard)