The Ombudsman's terms of appointment are in the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002.
The Ombudsman is nominated by the Scottish Parliament, and appointed by the King, for a period of no more than eight years.
The Ombudsman’s independence on decision-making and key statutory functions is an important aspect of their role and guaranteed by statute. They remain accountable to the Scottish Parliament for operations generally and are subject to many of the accountability structures that apply to Scottish public authorities.
The Ombudsman may be relieved of office by the King on request or following a resolution of Parliament which must be voted for by at least two thirds of members.