The City of Edinburgh Council can confirm that it has offered the post of Director of Corporate Governance to the current Head of Legal and Administration Services, Alastair Maclean, following the conclusion of a second round of short-list interviews by the recruitment committee earlier this week. The appointment has now been ratified by the council meeting earlier today.

Council Leader Councillor Jenny Dawe said:-“As this new post takes on responsibilities held by two previous directors, for corporate services and finance, it is essential that we appoint a very capable professional. I’m delighted with the strength of the field that applied for the post and from that Alastair has emerged as our preferred candidate. He will play a vital role in continuing the work to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of our services.”

Chief Executive Sue Bruce added: “We were incredibly fortunate to have such a range of excellent candidates to choose from. The Council clearly has a number of significant challenges and opportunities ahead of it in the coming months and years. Subject to approval by Council, I look forward to welcoming Alastair to the management team and his contribution as we go forward.”

Mr Maclean said: “I am very proud to be recommended to Council as the preferred candidate. There is a lot of work ahead but I relish the chance to be involved in shaping and delivering the corporate and finance functions of the Council during this time of change.”

Further announcements on a start date and handover arrangements will follow assuming the appointment is approved by the Council and once details have been agreed.

The posts of Director of Corporate Services and Director of Finance are currently being filled through acting-up arrangements with senior managers in those services. The previous postholders retired earlier this year.

Alastair Maclean profile
•   Aged 38
•   Gained a first in LLB (Hons) at the University of Edinburgh.
•   After completing a legal traineeship at Lindsays WS began as an assistant at Maclay Murray and Spens before rising to become a Partner in Corporate and Financial Services.
•   Was appointed Head of Legal and Administrative Services at the City of Edinburgh Council in 2009.
•   Married, with a son, and lives in Edinburgh.
•   Personal interests include running, skiing and kayaking.

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