Eddie Fraser appointed as new Chief Executive

Eddie Fraser has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of East Ayrshire Council, to replace Fiona Lees when she retires in a few weeks’ time.

Eddie has over 34 years of local government experience, having worked with Strathclyde Regional Council and Glasgow City Council prior to joining East Ayrshire Council in 1998. Eddie has remained with East Ayrshire Council apart from a period of a year when he took up the role of Head of Community Care with South Ayrshire Council in 2007.  He returned in 2008 to take up the post of Head of Community Care/Chief Social Work Officer before being promoted to his current role of Director of Health and Social Care in 2014. 

With his extensive experience and knowledge of the communities we serve, he will be very well-equipped to take the Council forward over the coming years.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said:

“I’d like to congratulate Eddie Fraser on his successful appointment as Chief Executive of East Ayrshire Council. This appointment signals a period of change for East Ayrshire. We know that many challenges lie ahead in the wake of COVID-19, but I am confident that Eddie will lead the organisation and the communities of East Ayrshire to recovery, and I very much look forward to working with Eddie as he takes up his new post.

Councillor John McGhee, Leader of East Ayrshire Labour Group said:

“I’m delighted to welcome Eddie as the new Chief Executive of East Ayrshire Council. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this post, having served in East Ayrshire for so many years. He knows our communities inside out and is very well placed to build on the solid foundations Fiona leaves behind. Eddie can be assured of the full cooperation of everyone at East Ayrshire Council.” 

Councillor Tom Cook, Leader of East Ayrshire Conservative Group said:

“Replacing our current Chief Executive was never going to be an easy task, but with Eddie’s appointment today, I know East Ayrshire will be in safe hands. He has proven himself to be an outstanding leader within the Health and Social Care Partnership and I’m delighted he’s staying with us as our new Chief Executive.  

Councillor Jim Roberts, Chair of the Recruitment Panel said:

“The calibre of candidates for this post has been outstanding; the process has been rigorous and we commend those who made it through to the final stages today, but I am delighted that we have now made our decision and I welcome Eddie Fraser as our new Chief Executive.”

A start date for Eddie to take up his new post is still under discussion.  

Out-going Chief Executive, Fiona Lees, announced her retirement on 19 August, having served as Chief Executive for over 16 years, with a total of 42 years’ service in local government.