Andrew Kerr has been confirmed as the new Chief Executive of the City of Edinburgh Council.

Councillors unanimously approved a report recommmending his appointment at a meeting earlier today.

Andrew Kerr will replace Dame Sue Bruce on Monday 27 July, although there is expected to be short hand-over period in the coming weeks.

Council Leader, Andrew Burns, said: “I’m delighted that Andrew Kerr’s appointment received unanimous backing from councillors today.

“It was clear from the recruitment process that he has the qualities required to take on the role and I look forward to working closely with him to shape the continued success of our city.”

Andrew Kerr said: “This is a tremendous honour and a fantastic opportunity to lead one of the most high profile local authorities in the United Kingdom.

“There are undoubtedly major challenges ahead with increasing demands for council services and reducing budgets but I will do my utmost to ensure that the Council continues to work hard for the city and everyone who lives, works, visits and invests here.

“Clearly, a great deal has been achieved in Edinburgh in recent years, and I am looking forward to working closely with elected members, officers and our partners to ensure that we build on those successes.”

Andrew Kerr 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 £900m 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.