He was the son of Florence III, Count of Holland, and Ada of Huntingdon, sister of kings Malcolm IV and William I of Scotland.
[1] But his status as nephew of the current King of Scots, William, undoubtedly persuaded Florence to pursue a career in Scotland.
In 1202, Florence was elected bishop of Glasgow, one of the most powerful and wealthy sees in the kingdom, and is recorded as Chancellor of Scotland on 4 November 1203.
[1] It appears though that Florence was never consecrated, yet is found reserving his right when still only bishop-elect before 15 May 1207.
[1] He resigned that position to Pope Innocent III in December 1207. the reasons for his non-consecration are unknown.