A retired top cop has been chosen to lead an Aberdeen business body as it embarks on another five-year term.
Adrian Watson, former Aberdeen divisional commander for Police Scotland, has been selected as chief executive at Aberdeen Inspired and will join up with the organisation later this month.
He will succeed Gary Craig, who has stepped down after nearly two years.
A member of Grampian Police and Police Scotland for 30 years, Mr Watson held various roles within the force before becoming chief superintendent and divisional commander for the Aberdeen City Division.
He retired earlier this year.
In his new role, he will be responsible for the organisation’s investment of a minimum of £6.5million in the heart of the city after levy payers voted to return the business-led initiative for a further five years.
He will also continue to play a part in the organisation’s bid to maintain the city’s Purple Flag status, a campaign he was heavily involved with throughout his time with the police.
Aberdeen became the first city in Scotland to be awarded the accreditation in 2014 and has now been re-accredited for the third time.
Mr Watson said: “I’m delighted to be joining Aberdeen Inspired at what is an exciting time in the organisation’s development and I’m looking forward to playing an integral part in further successes for it in the coming months.
“We’ve seen with last year’s Aberdeen Christmas village, the roof garden enhancement project and the Purple Flag accreditation campaign the benefit that the organisation can bring to the city as a whole and I’m keen to continue to build on the fantastic foundations already in place.
“Effective partnership working and communication will be key in all future successes and relationships with other like-minded organisations within the city will be a main focus of mine.
“There’s a real sense that Aberdeen is slowly beginning to realise its potential and it is important that Aberdeen Inspired plays an integral part in its development over the next five years.”
Allan Henderson, chairman of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Adrian’s experience and vast leadership skills encompass the type of person that is perfect to head-up the organisation and I’m thrilled to welcome him to the role.
“I look forward to working closely with him in the coming months in delivering projects that drive continuous improvement to the heart of the city.”
