Andrew Kerr has been announced as the preferred candidate for the post of chief executive for the City of Edinburgh Council.

Currently chief executive of Cornwall Council, Mr Kerr was chosen after a rigorous two day selection process. The recommendation will now go to the council meeting on 28 May for ratification.

Andrew began his career with the district council in Falkirk, the town of his birth. His 32-year public sector career has since included over three years at Birmingham City Council, where he led the national award-winning Birmingham BEST organisational development programme. From 2005 he led the turnaround of North Tyneside Council as its new CEO.

He was appointed chief operating officer of Cardiff Council in March 2012 where he delivered a £900 million joint venture in waste management. He has led transformation programmes in his last three authorities delivering more than £100m worth of savings. In his current post with Cornwall Council he is leading a programme planned to deliver £196m savings in the next four years.

Andrew has also represented Great Britain in international athletics (400m). He is married with three children.

Cllr Andrew Burns, leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “I’m delighted that Andrew Kerr has emerged as our preferred candidate. We ran a rigorous competitive recruitment process with a strong field of candidates. It was essential we chose the right calibre of person for this important and challenging leadership role.

“Andrew brings a wealth of local government experience and enthusiasm at a time when we face many unprecedented challenges and opportunities. I am confident that his energy and drive will play a central role in shaping the continued success of Edinburgh as a 21st century capital city.”

Outgoing chief executive Sue Bruce added: “It has been a great privilege to serve as chief executive in the City of Edinburgh, particularly during such a challenging and exciting time. There is a full agenda for Andrew Kerr to take forward and I would like to congratulate him on his appointment to this outstanding role. I look forward to handing over to Andrew before I leave the council later in the year.”

Mr Kerr is expected to take up the post later in 2015 with the date to be confirmed in due course.

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