South Ayrshire Council has appointed three new Assistant Director roles, completing the line up of their revised Chief Officer structure.

The announcement comes just two months after South Ayrshire Council Leader Martin Dowey refused to rule out compulsory job cuts.

Following a recruitment and selection process, Councillors appointed George Hunter as Assistant Director – Communities, Kenny Dalrymple as Assistant Director – Housing and Operations, and Chris Cox as Assistant Director – Planning and Development.

At a council meeting in October 2022, Cllr McGinley (Labour) addressed the question of a potential shortfall of £14 million in the council's 2023/2024 funding, and the impact it could have on council staff. Cllr McGinley asked: “Will any future council cuts involve a change of the council’s non-compulsory redundancy policy?"

Cllr Dowey replied: “As yet no decision has been made in terms of the council’s non-compulsory redundancy policy."

As of yet, there has still been no decision made.

The new Assistant Directors will support the Directors and Chief Executive in the formulation and delivery of strategic plans to ensure the effective leadership of the Council, a council statement said.

South Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executive, Eileen Howat said: “It’s great to have our full senior management team in post.  Chris, George and Kenny bring with them a combined total of 80 years of local authority experience - a wealth of knowledge that will be crucial in their new roles. 

"I look forward to working closely with each of them to deliver the best service to our residents.”

Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Martin Dowey said: “I’m delighted that we’ve now appointed to the final three vacant posts in our Chief Officer structure.

"Chris, George and Kenny will each be an asset to our senior management team. 

"I’m sure they’ll excel in their new roles and drive success across our services.”