Cleland Sneddon, best known as the official behind abortive plans to close 26 primary schools, has been promoted to a £118,000 post.
He was named today as the new chief executive of Argyll and Bute Council, replacing Sally Loudon who is leaving to lead COSLA.
Currently executive director of community services, Mr Sneddon was he senior public servant responsible when plans to close 26 primaries across the area were put forward in 2010, before being dropped after huge protests.
Council leader said he was delighted that Mr Sneddon had been appointed, since he had ‘a wealth of experience and insight’.
“We interviewed a very strong field of candidates, all of whom had skills and experience of value,” he added.
“In Cleland we will have a chief executive who understands the challenges, priorities and opportunities of our council and of our area.
“We will have a chief executive whose broad experience of local government and commitment to Argyll and Bute ensures focus on and action for the prosperous future the area deserves.”
Mr Sneddon worked previously for Midlothian and South Lanarkshire councils in roles covering education, housing, HR, social work and leisure.
He joined Argyll and Bute in May 2010.
He said: “I have been proud to serve Argyll and Bute Council, as executive director, and am privileged now to take up the sought after role of its chief executive.
“Argyll and Bute is an amazing part of Scotland with outstanding potential. The council has a significant part to play in supporting and providing for our communities and in delivering future prosperity by turning economic opportunities into economic growth.
“Our staff are very much the key to our success; we have a loyal, committed and enterprising workforce and I am looking forward to working with them.
“I will work tirelessly as Chief Executive, with our employees, elected members and partners, to make Argyll and Bute Council the best we can be, and to deliver the prosperity that means Argyll and Bute thrives.”
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