Paul McGarry

Personal statement:

I am standing for the Conference Committee to ensure stability, continuity, and a smooth transition for the new Conference Convenor. After eight years in the role, I know the systems, pressures, and expectations of conference inside out, and I have already agreed with several of the candidates that I will remain on the committee to support them through their first term.

Conference is one of the great strengths of our party. I care about it deeply, and I want to see it continue to grow, improve, and reflect the values of openness, fairness, and member empowerment. Remaining on the committee allows me to contribute constructively, pass on experience where it is helpful, and help the new convenor settle into the role with confidence.

Most of all, I am standing because I genuinely love conference and want to be part of its continued success in the years ahead.

What skills and experience will you bring?

I bring eight years of hands-on experience running Scottish Conference, giving me a detailed understanding of how to plan, deliver, and troubleshoot every part of the process. I have chaired agenda sessions, trained aides and chairs, overseen accessibility and safeguarding arrangements, and worked closely with staff to ensure conference operates smoothly under pressure.

My experience is practical, solutions-focused, and grounded in real delivery. I understand the rhythm of conference, the demands it places on staff and volunteers, and the importance of clear decision-making when issues arise. This background allows me to support the committee not only with governance knowledge but with the confidence that comes from managing complex events repeatedly and successfully.

I also bring continuity. With a new Scottish Convenor taking office, I can provide immediate stability, share institutional knowledge, and help ensure the handover is as smooth and supportive as possible. My long-standing relationships with staff, volunteers, and committee members mean I can contribute constructively from day one.

Above all, I bring a genuine commitment to ensuring conference runs fairly, efficiently, and in a way that supports members to participate fully.

What do you hope to achieve if elected?

My primary aim is to support the new Scottish Conference Convenor throughout their first term. Having done the role for eight years, I know how valuable continuity and guidance can be, and I want to ensure they have the support, clarity, and stability needed to succeed.

I also want to help conference remain welcoming and accessible. This includes strengthening support for new contributors, improving clarity around processes, and ensuring the committee continues to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers.

Finally, I want to play an active part in refining how the committee operates, helping to make decisions clearer, communication smoother, and processes more member-friendly, so that conference continues to feel well-run, fair, and open to all

a headshot of Paul McGarry

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