Derek Mitchell will take over as chief executive of Citizens Advice Scotland in August, the charity has announced.

Mr Mitchell has spent most of his working life in local government in a variety of management and public policy positions particularly in housing, homelessness and social work.

He is currently a chief officer at COSLA, where he has led on work with both the UK and Scottish Governments, as well as other key stakeholders, to ensure Scotland is a welcoming place for new migrants and refugees.

Prior to joining COSLA in 2005, he worked for the Scottish Government as a policy advisor in the homelessness team, helping shape the previous administration’s policy in achieving its ambitious homelessness targets.

Rory Mair, chair of Citizens Advice Scotland, said: “I am delighted that Derek will be joining us as CEO. I believe he is ideally qualified to lead CAS as he has a wealth of experience in a number of key areas.

“He is an experienced manager, practitioner and policy maker, is strongly committed to the ethos of the Citizen’s Advice network, bringing a strong set of values based on social justice and public service to the position. He is also very experienced in managing complex stakeholder relationships and is well-known and respected within Government and the sectors we engage with.”

Mr Mitchell said: “Having access to free, impartial and confidential advice is hugely important to Scottish citizens, and I am excited to have the chance to contribute to the work of the Citizens Advice network.

“I am looking forward to working with the CAS board to ensure the organisation and the member bureaux can build on their strongest assets – their staff and volunteers. Refreshing, renewing and emboldening this relationship with citizens, CABs, and partners will be at the heart of my agenda as chief executive.”

Mr Mitchell will join Citizens Advice Scotland on Monday 28 August. Anne Lavery will continue as acting chief executive until he joins, to ensure a smooth transition.