New Chief takes up post at East Ayrshire Council

On Monday 18 January 2021, Eddie Fraser took up the reins at East Ayrshire Council, in his new role as Chief Executive.

Eddie is no stranger to East Ayrshire, nor to the public sector, with a career spanning 34 years, he started with Strathclyde Regional Council in 1986 and joined East Ayrshire in 1998.  Most recently, Eddie has spent almost 7 years as Director of East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, where he has played a pivotal role in East Ayrshire’s collective response to the current COVID-19 pandemic.  

Speaking during his first week in his new post Eddie praised local communities, council employees, partners and local businesses for their collective efforts in responding to the pandemic, but stressed the need to support those who have been hit hardest and to ensure continued compliance with restrictions, to prevent the spread of the virus.

He said: “I am proud of our Council and passionate about the work we do for and with our communities. Throughout the pandemic we have taken swift and proactive action to support and protect those most in need and in the weeks ahead, our response to Covid-19 will continue to be our main priority. This will include working closely with NHS Ayrshire and Arran to support the Testing programme and the implementation of our largest ever mass vaccination programme.”

“We know that Covid-19 has affected some individuals and families more than others, exacerbating existing inequalities and making life even harder, for those who were already struggling the most. This impact could be long term if we don’t do all that we can to build on all of our good work to date and make the change that we need to see.

“Our local businesses have also been hit hard by the restrictions and at the same time many are also dealing with the consequences of the UK’s departure from the European Union. I plan to meet with some of those companies in the weeks ahead, to discuss not only the challenges they are facing, but also the opportunities that could help to generate employment, wealth and wellbeing for our communities. 

“These are challenging times, but the determination and spirit our teams and our communities have shown throughout the last ten months will serve us well, as we continue to provide the best possible services and as we plan for recovery and renewal, with and for communities.”