Mr Pearson will succeed Jim Orr as director of the Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency.

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said Mr Pearson will continue to develop the SDEA's role in fighting organised crime and build on its success.

The SDEA was established in June 2000 with the aim of tackling drug trafficking and other serious crime.

Ms Jamieson said: "This is a crucial post in the fight against serious and organised crime, one which also presents significant challenges in building on the considerable successes that the SDEA has achieved over the past three years under Jim Orr's leadership.

"I look forward to working with Mr Pearson to develop the SDEA's role in responding to the threat posed by all forms of serious and organised crime, including drug trafficking.

"In partnership with the Scottish police service and other UK law enforcement agencies Mr Pearson and his organisation will make a major contribution to the safer, stronger communities the public expects and deserves."