SCOTTISH Borders Council (SBC) has announced the appointment of a new chief executive.

David Robertson, who joined the local authority in 2011 as chief financial officer, spent six months as acting chief executive.

It followed Netta Meadows’ decision to step down from the role after just 18 months at the helm.

Mr Robertson has now been given the job on a permanent basis.

He said: “It’s an exciting time coming into this role, with a new council plan to progress, a budget to agree and ambitious investment plans in new assets to deliver for the Borders.

“I’m very much looking forward to working collectively with elected members, council colleagues, our community planning partners and local communities to address the current and future challenges we face as a region and to optimise the opportunities across the Scottish Borders from our two city/region deals.

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“I am greatly honoured to take on the permanent chief executive role and am committed to ensure together we all do our very best for the people of the Borders.”

Mr Robertson, a qualified accountant, graduated from Glasgow University and worked in a variety of finance roles with the City of Edinburgh Council.

The married father-of-two will work with elected members and officer colleagues to deliver the council’s budget and plan, which are currently out for consultation and will launch in 2023.

SBC leader Euan Jardine, of the Conservatives, said: “I am delighted to announce Mr Robertson has accepted the position of chief executive at Scottish Borders Council.

“This appointment follows a rigorous external recruitment process and internal assessment by cross-party members resulting in a unanimous decision to appoint Mr Robertson.

“On behalf of the elected members I would like to congratulate David on his appointment and stewardship of the council over the last six months; he has more than proved his ability.

“I am looking forward to continuing to work closely with him and his strategic leadership team as we move forward.”