Alison MacDonald

Background

About Alison MacDonald

Senior Strategic Leader Head of Strategy, HM Inspectorate of Education Head of Strategy at HM Inspectorate of Education in Scotland, I lead national education reform, directing strategic transformation to improve outcomes for children and young people. I specialise in creating clarity, coherence and measurable impact across complex systems through strong relationships, collaborative leadership and clear communication.I’ve led major national transitions, including the strategic separation of the Inspectorate from Education Scotland. My experience spans teaching, senior roles in local government, and national inspection, giving me deep expertise in evaluation, governance, policy design and delivery. I represent the Inspectorate at senior government level and internationally, contributing to global conversations on education improvement through the Standing International Council of Inspectorates.I am a calm, grounded and values-led leader, focused on trust, integrity and practical action. I empower high-performing teams, build cross-sector partnerships, and drive sustainable, system-wide change.Key strengths:Strategic leadership in complex environmentsEvidence-based decision making and policy deliveryTrusted relationships across government, inspection and educationClear, confident communication at national and international level