The former chief executive of Highland Council Alistair Dodds was made a CBE in recognition of his services to local government.
The 60-year-old, who retired last year after six years in the top job, admitted his wife, Ann Clark “hooted with laughter” when she found out.
“I think she was quite pleased,” he said.
Originally from Kelso, Mr Dodds, move to the Highlands in 1991 as depute director of manpower service with the former regional council and later became director of personnel.
In 1998 he was appointed director of corporate service and depute chief executive with Highland Council, rising to chief executive in 2007.
“I am delighted to receive it, it came as a complete surprise, you can imagine,” he said.
“It is recognition of the pretty tremendous efforts of the staff and members of Highland Council.”
Since retiring Mr Dodds has been appointed a trustee with the National Galleries of Scotland and the Elsie Normington Foundation which helps young people with learning disabilities.
He is also a non-executive director with Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Recently, he picked up his City and Guilds qualification in chainsawing to help his work with the Aultnaskiach Dell community woodland in Inverness.