Who Is John Swinney? Age, Biography and Wiki
John Swinney was born on April 13, 1964. As of 2025, he is 61 years old. Swinney has been a significant player in Scottish politics and was appointed the First Minister of Scotland in 2024. Known for his dedication and political acumen, Swinney has held several key positions within the Scottish Government throughout his career. His political journey includes service as the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and other crucial roles, which have shaped Scotland's political landscape.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 13, 1964 |
| Age | 61 Years |
| Birth Place | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country |
Popularity
John Swinney's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific physical measurements for John Swinney are not widely documented, he is recognized for his professional presentation. Standing at an estimated height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and maintaining a healthy weight, John has a robust presence that complements his leadership role.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
John Swinney is a devoted family man. He is married to his long-time partner, whose name has not been made publicly prominent in the media. Together, they have raised children, fostering a family-oriented lifestyle. As a public figure, Swinney’s personal relationships are often kept private, focusing instead on his contributions to Scottish society and politics.
Following the results, Swinney said that the outcome of the election in Scotland was "very, very difficult and damaging". High profile SNP MPs lost their seats in the election, including Kirsten Oswald, Tommy Sheppard, Alison Thewliss and Joanna Cherry.
On 7 July 2024, newly elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer travelled to Edinburgh on the first stop of his tour of the four countries of the United Kingdom and met with Swinney at the official residence of the First Minister, Bute House.
During the meeting, both Swinney and Starmer agreed to "work together" and to "reset the relationship between their two governments".
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, John Swinney's net worth is estimated to be around £2 million. His salary as the First Minister of Scotland reflects his high-ranking position in government, contributing significantly to his overall wealth. Additionally, Swinney has built assets through various investments and prior roles, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle for him and his family.
As response to Swinney not notifying the Scottish Parliament that he had let the Scottish Variable Rate lapse due to not funding this tax mechanism, the Scottish Parliament voted to censure him and called his actions "an abuse of power".
Subsequently, a freedom of information request showed that even if Swinney had funded the mechanism, problems and delays in the HM Revenue & Customs computer system made any collection of the tax impossible.
The Scottish Government added, "The power has not lapsed, the HMRC simply does not have an IT system capable of delivering a ten-month state of readiness."
Career, Business and Investments
John Swinney's career has been marked by significant achievements in Scottish politics. He has held various ministerial positions, demonstrating his expertise in economic and educational matters. His role in the Scottish Parliament has seen him advocate for progressive policies that promote Scotland's interests on both a national and international stage.
In terms of investments, Swinney has shown an interest in sustainable businesses and community-focused initiatives, often aligning with his political values. His commitment to public service extends beyond politics, as he engages in efforts to enhance Scotland’s economic prospects through innovation and education.
From 2004 to 2007, Swinney was a backbencher. At the 2007 Scottish Parliament election, the SNP won the highest number of seats, and Salmond was subsequently appointed first minister. Swinney served under Salmond as Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth from 2007 to 2014.
After Sturgeon succeeded Salmond, she appointed Swinney as Deputy First Minister in 2014.
He also served as Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Constitution and Economy, until that role was divided into two posts in the second Sturgeon government as a result of the expansion of the Scottish Parliament's financial powers; he was then appointed Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills in 2016, and then as Cabinet Secretary for Covid Recovery
in 2021.
On 25 May 2022, Swinney became the longest serving Deputy First Minister, surpassing the previous record which was held by Sturgeon. Swinney served as Acting Finance and Economy Secretary in addition to his position of Covid Recovery Secretary from July 2022 to March 2023.
In March 2023, he announced his resignation from his senior positions in response to Sturgeon's resignation as first minister.
Social Network
John Swinney maintains an active social media presence, connecting with the public and providing updates on his political endeavors. His social media handles include:
- Twitter: @JohnSwinney
- Facebook: John Swinney
Born in Edinburgh, Swinney graduated with a MA in politics at the University of Edinburgh. He joined the SNP at a young age, and quickly rose to prominence by serving as the National Secretary from 1986 to 1992 and as Deputy Leader from 1998 to 2000. He served in the House of Commons as MP for Tayside North from 1997 to 2001.
He was elected to the inaugural Scottish Parliament at the 1999 Scottish Parliament election. After Salmond resigned the party leadership in 2000, Swinney was elected at the 2000 leadership election. He became Leader of the Opposition in the Scottish Parliament.
The SNP lost one MP at the 2001 general election and eight MSPs at the 2003 Scottish Parliament election, despite the Officegate scandal unseating the previous Scottish Labour first minister, Henry McLeish.
However, the only parties to gain seats in that election were the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Socialist Party (SSP) which, like the SNP, support independence. After an unsuccessful challenge to his leadership in 2003, and the party's unfavourable results at the 2004 European Parliament election, Swinney resigned.
Salmond returned to the role at the subsequent 2004 leadership election.
Education
John Swinney attended the University of Edinburgh, where he studied history and politics. His academic background laid the groundwork for his successful career in public service, equipping him with critical thinking and analytical skills. This education has been instrumental as he navigates the complexities of governance and public policy.
Swinney was educated at Forrester High School, before attending the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated with a Master of Arts Honours degree in politics in 1986.
He was a research officer for the Scottish Coal Project from 1987 to 1988, a senior management consultant with Development Options from 1988 to 1992, and a strategic planning principal with Scottish Amicable Life Assurance from 1992 to 1997.
