Donalda Mackinnon, currently head of programmes for BBC Scotland, has been appointed to the corporation's top post in Scotland.

Ms MacKinnon, who is currently Head of Programmes and Services for BBC Scotland, will become BBC Scotland’s first female leader and will take up her new role with immediate effect.

She takes over from from Ken MacQuarrie, who was recently appointed the BBC’s Director, Nations and Regions.

One of the first decisions she will take in the new role is whether to proceed with the 'Scottish Six' evening news programme idea, which has been trialled internally at BBC Scotland this year.

A BBC spokesman said it was still "working on various formats".

She said: “Being part of the huge team effort that brings so many different programmes to all our audiences is a real privilege and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to help shape that even more in the future.

“The new Charter offers great opportunities – and a few challenges – as we aim to make great content that reflects Scotland’s diversity and distinctiveness for audiences here, across the UK and the world.

"I know there’s a wealth of talent and creativity in BBC Scotland, in the wider sector and in partner organisations.

"Working brilliantly together, I’m confident we can make compelling and enthralling programmes that entertain and inform all of our audiences.”

Tony Hall, the BBC Director General, said he is confident BBC Scotland will thrive under her leadership.

He said:"I’m delighted that Donalda is going to take up this role. In her current job she has been responsible for the teams producing hits like Still Game, Fair Isle and Highlands – Scotland’s Wild Heart. I’m confident that BBC Scotland will continue its creative success under her leadership and will get even better at representing life in Scotland.”

Mr MacQuarrie added: "Donalda has an excellent track record in bringing a wide range of engaging programmes to our audiences and I know she’ll continue to work with the BBC Scotland staff and the independent production community to build on that. She’s hugely respected throughout the creative sector and I know BBC Scotland will be in very good hands.”

She is a former head of Children’s and Gaelic services in BBC Scotland.

A graduate of the University of Edinburgh, she completed a post-graduate diploma and began her career as a teacher before joining the BBC.

Ms MacKinnon is a Trustee on the Board of BBC Children in Need, a Board member of the Royal Television Society, Scotland, a BAFTA member and also sits on the Skills Development Scotland, Apprenticeship Advisory Board.

She is married and has a daughter and twin sons.