Who we are
The Commissioner
The Scottish Biometrics Commissioner is Dr Brian Plastow, who was appointed by Her Majesty the Queen on 12 April 2021 on the nomination of the Scottish Parliament. He is a former police Chief Superintendent and Lead Inspector with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland. Brian has more than 4 decades of policing experience in Scotland and has significant knowledge of, and practical experience in, the use of biometric data and technologies for criminal justice and policing purposes. He has also conducted independent research into policing, equalities, and human rights and holds an MSc with Distinction in Community Safety and a PhD in Criminology from the University of Leicester.
Dr Brian Plastow - Declaration of Interest 2026/27
Director
Cheryl Glen
As the Director, Cheryl has responsibility for delivering all corporate activities and directing operational staff in support of the 4-year Strategic Plan; developing and establishing corporate policies, practices and procedures for the office; ensuring effective management of the organisation and efficient use of its resources in pursuit of its Strategic and Operational aims, and for financial management including accounting, budget and contracts. As Director, Cheryl deputises for the Commissioner as and when required.
As a highly skilled professional, Cheryl brings with her numerous years of partnership working either as an analyst or within a management position across a variety of settings including government, police forces, local authorities and national bodies.
Subject Matter Expert
Karen McBride
Karen is seconded to the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner from the Scottish Police Authority to offer subject matter advice on biometrics, in particular relating to fingerprints. She will contribute to the delivery of thematic assurance reviews and collaborate with stakeholders and partners to increase knowledge exchange and promote initiatives. Karen’s background in forensics spans 31 years and she is a qualified Senior Fingerprint Examiner with experience in the analysis, comparison and evaluation of fingerprints.
Business Support Officer
Joanna Milne
Joanna provides administrative and business support to the team which includes updating the website and ensuring documents are stored according to the model publication scheme. Joanna is also responsible for responding to Freedom of Information and Subject Access requests and publishing the responses on the website.
Joanna brings with her previous administrative experience from the banking, social services and charity sectors.