Jobs axe falls on council officials

Jan 2 2009

FOUR senior council officials have been made redundant.

The move comes after a major shake-up at council HQ.

Ian McLarty (planning), Ken Hamilton (housing), Pat Wheelan (education) and Nick Larkin (enterprise) failed to secure positions within a new-look management structure at County Buildings.

The move comes after 12 heads of service were forced to re-apply for their jobs as part of a restructuring programme.

Council leader Hugh Hunter revealed this week that six of the 12 vacant head of service posts have been filled.

The six remaining positions will be advertised in the new year.

He said: “The efficient delivery of our services to South Ayrshire residents and visitors is at the core of what we do and it is important that we have the right team in place.

“The new corporate management team have a great vision for the future and the whole council is fully committed to supporting necessary changes.”

Roddy MacDonald has been appointed head of community development with Brian McInroy put in charge of service and school management.

Dan russell remains responsible for the legal and administration department with Margo Williamson taking on curriculum and service improvement.

Angela Wilson is the new head of HR and organisational development with Ian Woodburn taking over as head of customer and community services.

It is understood that the overhaul is the first step in a continuing process that will move down the chain of command in the coming months.

It comes after the decision to reduce the number of council directors from four to three, with education boss Mike McCabe opting to take a retirement deal.

And it follows the appointment of new chief executive David Anderson.

He has been working with senior councillors to improve efficiency and give council tax payers a better service.

He said: “Our heads of service posts are very important, senior positions in the council and we have been able to find extremely talented individuals to take on these challenging jobs.

“I would like to congratulate each of the successful heads of service on their appointment.

“These employees are all highly skilled, established, enthusiastic, energetic and committed to following the vision that the council has.

“They will be invaluable in helping the corporate management team to drive forward changes within the council that will see it develop as a more innovative and creative organisation.

“Each of the new heads of service will be crucial in leading other employees, and in driving forward, directing and supporting the strategic delivery of services to people in South Ayrshire.”