A search has started for a new NHS Highland chairman after it was announced Garry Coutts will stand down next year.
Mr Coutts has headed the health board for the statutory maximum of three consecutive four-year terms.
He is the longest-serving chair of a health board in Scotland.
He first joined the NHS Highland board in 2002 as the nominated local authority councillor for Highland Council and took up the position of chairman in April 2004.
His reign has included the challenging integration of adult health and social care services with Highland Council.
But it has also been a turbulent period for the organisation, which has faced a series of financial woes.
He was among senior members who were twice summoned to appear in front of the Public Audit Committee at the Scottish Parliament over accusations that the board was kept “in the dark” about the need for a government loan.
Mr Coutt’s post is one of five similar positions being advertised by the Scottish Government.
NHS Orkney, NHS Tayside, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and NHS Health Scotland are all seeking a new chair.
The part-time post of NHS Highland chair requires a commitment of at least three days a week for a remuneration of £29,640.