Mark Logan resigns as chief entrepreneur blaming ‘right-wing’ politicians

Mark Logan has stepped down as the Scottish Government’s chief entrepreneurial advisor, four years into the role.

Logan accused “right-wing” politicians and “supporting” journalists of pushing him to resign, saying their attacks had become “draining”.

He was appointed to the role in 2022, after having been commissioned by then finance secretary Kate Forbes to review the Scottish technology ecosystem two years prior.

Since taking on the position, Logan had come under fire for the remuneration he receives in the part-time role. Figures published under the Freedom of Information Act showed he received over £260,000 in just over two years. 

He previously defended the salary, telling the Economy and Fair Work Committee that the sum represented value for money given his senior position in the tech sector. He has over two decades of experience in the sector, having been Skyscanner’s chief operating officer for four years as well as other senior roles at other firms such as Cisco.

Announcing his resignation on LinkedIn he said it had been a “privilege” to hold the role, but it was “time for change”.

The statement said: “I’ve had the precious opportunity to work with very many wonderful people, in government, in parliament, in our agencies, in our schools and universities, our ecosystem builders, and, of course, in our start-ups and social enterprises.

“I’ve decided that four and a half years is long enough for me in this role, and that it is time for a change. And although I am not in a political role, I am increasingly becoming a target for some in the right-wing of Scottish politics and their supporting publications, which, just as intended, has become draining.

“So, I’m stepping down from my role as chief entrepreneurial advisor.  There are no 'musical differences' or tensions with stakeholders behind that decision.”

He added: “I also believe that it is better to stop doing something while you are still enjoying it, and when it still hurts to leave it behind, as that way you take with you only good memories.

“So that is what I am going to do. I’m grateful to both First Minister John Swinney and Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes for their support and help throughout my appointment period, and for their understanding concerning my decision now.

“During the next few weeks, I’ll fulfil some remaining speaking commitments and transfer ongoing projects into safe and very capable hands, completing these steps by mid-November."

Logan added he would leave the role by mid-November, but added huis plans to continue playing a part in a “less formal capacity.”