Ann Marie Carr will take on the role permanently after serving on an interim basis since December 2018.

She will have responsibility for the management and delivery of the council’s housing service, building service, and front line customer services.

Ann Marie has had a long career in local government, starting with Falkirk District Council in 1982 in internal audit then housing before moving to West Lothian District Council in 1989 which later became West Lothian Council.

Having started her studies whilst working in Falkirk and gaining a Post Graduate Diploma in Housing from Stirling University in 1994, over the last 37 years Ann Marie has gained extensive experience within the housing sector from her days working as a front line housing officer to her most recent post of senior manager for housing need.

West Lothian Council chief executive, Graham Hope, added: “Ann Marie has tremendous experience within the housing sector giving her a great understanding of the social housing landscape, and her leadership will be a real asset to West Lothian Council. The Head of Housing, Customer and Building Services is a key role within West Lothian covering many of the essential services that are crucial for the people of West Lothian.

“I have worked with Ann Marie for a number of years and I would like to congratulate her on her appointment.”