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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, Â鶹Éç Special Correspondent
Glenn Campbell, Political Editor, Â鶹Éç 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 North

PRODUCTION TEAM
Presenter: Mark Coles
Producer: Nathan Gower
Assistant Producer: Diane Richardson and Marianna Brain
Editor: Tom Bigwood
Programme Coordinators: Maria Ogundele
Sound Engineer: Neil Churchill

CREDITS
‘John Swinney (We Salute You)' by Nocturnal Vermin (Isaac Brutal, James ‘Slippyunderfoot‘ McCready, Arnold Bastard)