Edinburgh council chief announces retirement

The chief executive of City of Edinburgh Council has announced his retirement.

Andrew Kerr, who was been at the helm of the local authority since 2015, will leave his post in mid-June.

Kerr said: “I have been hugely proud to dedicate my entire working life to local government and public service.

“I always said I wanted to finish my career here and it’s been an absolute privilege to work for this fantastic city, particularly during such a challenging and exciting time.”

Kerr has worked in local government for more than 40 years, starting out at Falkirk District Council.

He also served as chief executive at North Tyneside, Wiltshire and Cornwall councils.

The recruitment process to replace him will begin immediately.

Council leader Cammy Day said: “I’ve enjoyed working with Andrew, both when I was deputy leader and now as leader, and I want to thank him for his hard work over the past nine years in particular – but also for his 42 years’ worth of commitment to public service.

“Of particular note was his leadership throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, a hugely challenging time for the council and the city, and his role in ensuring Edinburgh paid a fitting tribute to the Queen following her death in 2022.”

The role of chief executive on the council is one of the highest paid public sector roles in Scotland, with Kerr earning more than £180,000 in 2021-22.