Aberdeenshire Council chief executive Alan Campbell announced last night that he is to quit.
The 61-year-old, who has led the council since it was formed in 1995, has decided to step down after 40 years in local government.
His announcement comes just weeks after Douglas Paterson quit as boss of crisis-hit Aberdeen City Council before members of a government watchdog arrived in the city to question his leadership at the landmark Accounts Commission hearing.
However, Mr Campbell insists it is just chance that both posts have become vacant at the same time, insisting he won’t be taking another chief executive job.
He refused to be drawn on whether he could be lured to the city council on a consultancy basis — instead saying he will wait to see what opportunities arise before deciding on his next move.
Mr Campbell leaves Aberdeenshire Council in its best state yet and his decision to step down follows a glowing Best Value Report from Audit Scotland last week.
He said the report was a key factor in his decision to resign after 17 years leading the council and its predecessor, Grampian Regional Council.
“It is with some reluctance that I have decided to resign,” he said.
“I am very satisfied with the findings of the Best Value Report which demonstrate that I will be leaving Aberdeenshire Council in a very good position, with sound financial management, a clear vision for the future and a committed and motivated workforce.
“It would be easy for me to stay here for another four years until retirement, in a position where I am very happy and confident about the direction the council will take.
“However, I think that now the time is right to hand over the reins for someone else to continue to deliver our vision to make Aberdeenshire Council the best in Scotland.”
Mr Campbell added: “I am keen to take on new challenges. I am passionate about the delivery of excellent public service delivery and feel that there will be new opportunities for me.”
Council leader Anne Robertson paid tribute to Mr Campbell, saying he had worked tirelessly to leave Aberdeenshire Council in the best shape it has been in since its creation.
“He is one of the most respected chief executives in Scotland and I am very grateful to him for his commitment to local government services,” she said.
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MSP Mike Rumbles added: “The fact that Aberdeenshire has been able to avoid the problems of neighbouring Aberdeen City Council despite receiving the fourth lowest grant settlement per head of population from the Scottish Government speaks volumes for his management abilities.
“The council now has a big challenge to find a successor who can build on the progress that has been made in recent years.”