Alex Salmond tells Nicola Sturgeon she will 'make history' Alex Salmond has bowed out as leader of the SNP during the party conference in Perth. During a speech to delegates, Mr Salmond said: "As one era ends so another begins. Nicola, your contribution to where this party now stands has already been immense, your future contribution I have no doubt will be to make history. Mr Salmond announced his intention to stand down as both the party leader and first minister of Scotland following September's independence referendum. The Aberdeenshire East MSP will continue as first minister until next week when new party leader Nicola Sturgeon is expected to be elected as his successor in the Scottish Parliament. Ms Sturgeon has formally succeeded Mr Salmond as leader of the SNP telling the party conference in Perth that it was "the privilege of her life." MP Stewart Hosie was elected deputy leader.