The move follows a robust recruitment and selection process which concluded this week.

Announcing the news, council leader Gordan Low said: “I am delighted that Ann will be taking over as chief executive here at East Dunbartonshire. She has a real understanding of both the challenges and the opportunities we face, and she brings a wealth of experience to the role.

“Ann has been at the heart of our organisational planning and service delivery for a significant number of years and she was the stand out candidate in our rigorous recruitment process.”

Mrs Davie joined East Dunbartonshire Council 17 years ago as head of HR and organisational development, following previous extensive public and private sector experience. She is currently the council’s depute chief executive and she will succeed current chief executive Gerry Cornes who retires in January.

Following confirmation of her appointment, Ann said: “I am absolutely delighted to take on this role and to build on the achievements of our current chief executive Gerry Cornes – and I wish Gerry all the very best in his retirement.

“It is a great privilege for me to continue to work with our elected members and fantastic senior leadership team and to continue to develop and improve the very best services for the people of East Dunbartonshire.”