Sturgeon has led the SNP and Scotland since 2014, having replaced his predecessor Alex Salmond. He has been successful in every election since then and has continued to push for Scottish independence by campaigning for a second referendum on the decision.
Westminster conflict
It has repeatedly brought it into conflict with the British government, led by the Conservatives, who support the union. In recent months, Sturgeon has grappled with a number of thorny issues, including the gender recognition bill.
Although the legislation passed in Holyrood, it was later blocked by Westminster as ministers said it would have a “significant effect” on equality.