Bruce takes over at Aberdeen

Sue Bruce has been appointed the new permanent chief executive of troubled Aberdeen City Council.

Ms Bruce replaces Douglas Patterson who retired last month after massive financial problems came to light requiring £50m worth of budget savings.

Former Southwark LBC chief executive Bob Coomber is currently the North East Scottish authority's interim chief executive. Ms Bruce is expected to take up post towards the end of the year.  

Ms Bruce joins Aberdeen from East Dunbartonshire Council, where she has been chief executive for the past four years.

Before becoming chief executive of East Dunbartonshire, was the strategic director of the council's communities directorate covering housing and social services.  She was previously depute director of education at East Ayrshire Council.

Aberdeen deputy leader Councillor Kevin Stewart said: "The field of candidates was very strong but we felt sure that Mrs Bruce has what it takes to lead Aberdeen City Council.  She is a real believer in providing first-class services for citizens."

Ms Bruce said: "I am delighted to accept the appointment of chief executive to Aberdeen City Council.  I look forward to this move to the North East, and to the new challenges that the vibrant city of Aberdeen will bring.

"This move to Aberdeen City Council is an exciting opportunity for me.  I look forward to meeting the elected members and the workforce and driving forward a new agenda to meet the challenges we will face together in delivering first class services to the people of Aberdeen."