Renfrewshire Council appoints new Chief Executive

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David Martin, 45, currently Strategic Manager for Support Services and an Assistant Chief Executive with Fife Council, is to succeed Renfrewshire Council’s current Chief Executive, Tom Scholes.

Mr Scholes is retiring in October after eleven years in the post.

David Martin has extensive public sector experience with Stirling and Central Regional Councils, Ross and Cromarty District Council, the Highlands and Islands Development Board and currently, Fife Council.

Mr Martin has worked in economic policy, business development, community planning, housing, finance and environmental services.

Since 2001, he has had a senior strategic and corporate management role with Fife Council with responsibility for customer relations management, finance and asset management, IT services, law and administration and service support.

Mr Martin studied at Glasgow University and holds an M. Phil in Town and Regional Planning and a BSC (Hons) in Geography/Topographical Science. Originally from Hamilton, he now lives in Bridge of Allan.

He has been an executive member of the Scottish Society of Directors of Planning and is currently a member of SOLACE (The Society of Local Authority Chief Executives) Scotland.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Jim Harkins said: “This is an exciting time for Renfrewshire Council. We are taking forward a number of major developments and service improvements such as the £265 million investment in our schools and a new council headquarters which will deliver better customer service. David Martin brings an outstanding record of achievement in improving and modernising a broad range of local authority services. We are confident he will build on Renfrewshire Council’s achievements and take forward our partnership working approach for the benefit of our customers.”

David Martin said: “I’m delighted and feel very privileged to have the opportunity to work with one of Scotland’s most progressive and effective councils. I will be building on the excellent work that has already been done by Tom Scholes and his team, and working closely with members and staff to ensure that the people of Renfrewshire continue to have a local council that listens, responds and delivers high quality public services.”

Press Release: Monday 8 May 2006