Now Hiring: Scottish Biometrics Commissioner

The recruitment of Scotland’s first-ever Biometrics Commissioner has begun, with details of the appointment posted to the Scottish Parliament’s website.

According to the announcement, the role of the Commissioner includes supporting and promoting “the adoption of lawful, effective and ethical practices in relation to biometric data in a policing and criminal justice context.” The announcement also warns that the position will bring a high profile, and is public-facing.  Candidates must therefore posses strong analytical and communication skills, be comfortable working in a political environment, and “be resilient in challenging circumstances.”

In addition to the usual challenges that come with the position, the successful applicant will have to stand up the office.

The Commissioner will be appointed for an 8-year fixed term, and draw a salary of £70,000 (US$93,500), which is pensionable. The position will be filled with an appointment coincident with the nomination of Scottish Parliament.

Parliament passed the legislation to establish the position, the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner Act 2020, earlier this year.

Scottish Parliament paused a plan for police to trial live facial recognition at the beginning of this year, citing the lack of a legal framework, raising one of the debates which the new Commissioner will have to address.

Applications close December 17, 2020.

Article Topics

biometric data  |  biometrics  |  ethics  |  legislation  |  police  |  regulation  |  Scotland  |  Scottish Biometrics Commissioner  |  UK