Historic Environment Scotland Manager Dismissed Amid Twerking Controversy

London, United Kingdom Jul 16, 2026 ALN: The recent dismissal of a senior manager at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has sparked considerable discussion and controversy, particularly in light of the incident involving actor Martin Compston. This episode, which has been labeled the "twerking row," occurred during a corporate event at the iconic Edinburgh Castle in 2023. Compston, known for his role in the acclaimed television series Line Of Duty, reportedly felt uncomfortable during the incident, which also included notable attendees such as Penny Lancaster, the wife of singer Sir Rod Stewart. This incident was first brought to public attention in October of the previous year, setting off a chain of events that has culminated in the manager's recent termination.

The timing of this dismissal is significant, occurring during what has been a tumultuous period for HES, which is a public body that receives substantial funding—£74 million annually—from the Scottish Government. This funding is allocated for the maintenance and preservation of over 300 historic buildings and sites across Scotland, including prominent landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Linlithgow Palace. The agency's role is crucial in safeguarding Scotland's heritage, and any controversies surrounding its leadership can have wider implications for public trust and funding.

In the wake of the twerking incident, it was revealed that a complaint against the HES manager had been upheld, although the specifics of the sanctions imposed were not made public at that time. This incident was not isolated; a separate, unrelated complaint against the same manager was reported shortly thereafter. The culmination of these events has led to the manager's dismissal in the current month, a decision that has been met with mixed reactions within the organization. Some sources within HES have expressed sympathy for the sacked manager, suggesting that there may have been a “witch hunt” against her, raising questions about workplace culture and the handling of complaints within the agency.

The leadership of HES has undergone significant changes recently. Following the resignation of Sir Mark Jones, who had been appointed as chair only nine months prior, Culture Secretary Mairi McAllan appointed Ronnie Hinds as the interim chair. Sir Mark's resignation was unexpected, particularly given his previous experience in successfully managing institutions like the British Museum during a crisis. His tenure at HES was anticipated to bring stability to the agency, especially in light of ongoing issues regarding the behavior of senior figures.

Despite hopes for a turnaround, it became clear that Sir Mark faced considerable challenges during his short time in the role. Reports indicated that he struggled with resistance to change within the organization and may have encountered pressure from the Scottish Government to reinstate Katerina Brown, the chief executive who had been suspended amid her own controversy. Brown had been the subject of a grievance complaint filed by all seven directors of HES, although the investigation concluded without disciplinary action against her.

The situation at HES has drawn attention from political figures, with Tory MSP Murdo Fraser urging the Culture Secretary to take decisive action to address the ongoing crisis. The agency's governance has been under scrutiny, particularly following a report from Scotland's public spending watchdog, which highlighted "unacceptable weaknesses" in HES's governance. Auditor General Stephen Boyle's findings pointed to issues ranging from procurement practices to data breaches, and he noted the existence of a toxic workplace culture that necessitated thorough investigation and resolution.

In light of these findings, a culture and organization review was commissioned, led by former Dundee City Council chief executive David Martin. His review recommended a significant overhaul of management practices at HES, emphasizing the need for improved relationships between the board and senior executives. Martin acknowledged the dedication and hard work of HES's 1,600 civil servants but criticized the lack of visible leadership and accountability, which he believed had hampered the agency's performance and strategic focus.

As HES navigates these challenges, the implications for Scotland's heritage and public trust in the agency are profound. The sacking of the senior manager amid the twerking controversy raises questions about how complaints are managed and the overall culture within HES. It highlights the need for a transparent and fair process for addressing grievances, as well as the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace environment.

Looking ahead, the appointment of Ronnie Hinds as interim chair represents both a continuity and a potential pivot in leadership style at HES. His role will be crucial as the agency seeks to stabilize its operations and rebuild trust with stakeholders, including the Scottish Government and the public. The search for a new permanent chair is already underway, with the position advertised at a pay rate of £400 per day for a commitment of four days per month, reflecting the ongoing need for effective governance amid the agency's current turmoil.

In conclusion, the recent events surrounding Historic Environment Scotland serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in managing public institutions, particularly those tasked with preserving national heritage. The interplay between leadership, workplace culture, and public accountability will be critical as HES moves forward from this controversy, striving to fulfill its mission while addressing the internal challenges that have come to light.

To understand the broader implications of the HES controversy, it is essential to recognize the context in which the agency operates. Established in 2015, HES was formed from the merger of Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. Its mission encompasses not only the preservation of Scotland's historical sites but also the promotion of public engagement with these cultural treasures. The agency's work is vital in fostering national identity and pride, making its governance and leadership particularly significant.

The scrutiny of HES's management practices comes at a time when public institutions across the UK are increasingly held to account for their governance and operational transparency. The public's expectation for accountability has grown, particularly in the wake of various scandals in both private and public sectors. The recent findings regarding HES's governance highlight the necessity for robust oversight mechanisms to ensure that public funds are utilized effectively and ethically.

Moreover, the controversy surrounding the dismissal of the HES manager raises critical questions about workplace culture and the mechanisms for handling complaints. In recent years, many organizations have faced challenges related to workplace harassment and discrimination, prompting calls for more stringent policies and practices to protect employees. The HES incident may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about organizational culture, particularly in public institutions where accountability and transparency are paramount.

As discussions continue around the future of HES, it is essential for the agency to not only address the immediate fallout from the twerking controversy but also to engage in a comprehensive review of its internal policies and practices. This may involve revisiting its grievance procedures, enhancing training programs for staff, and ensuring that leadership is equipped to foster a respectful and inclusive workplace environment.

In the long term, the ability of HES to navigate these challenges will likely influence public perception and support for its mission. The agency's effectiveness in preserving Scotland's heritage depends not only on its operational capabilities but also on the trust it builds with the public and stakeholders. As HES seeks to move forward from this controversy, it will need to demonstrate a commitment to reform and improvement, ensuring that it can fulfill its vital role in safeguarding Scotland's cultural legacy for future generations.